Professor Pal Ahluwalia, the Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of the South Pacific (USP), is facing renewed calls for his resignation from staff unions. The University of the South Pacific Staff Union (USPSU) and the President of the University Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) have initiated protests at USP’s Laucala Campus, demanding his immediate removal.
The unions contend that Ahluwalia’s leadership is inadequate and are urging the university’s Special Council to investigate management and human resources issues arising during his administration. This situation marks a significant shift, as many staff members previously supported Ahluwalia’s return to Fiji following his controversial deportation by the former government.
Frustration and dissatisfaction have replaced the earlier support. A prominent concern is the dismissal of biologist and former AUSPS president Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, who was terminated in July after an interview with Islands Business, which Ahluwalia labeled a breach of contract confidentiality.
The strike has disrupted classes, leaving some students unaware of the situation and arriving to find empty classrooms. The unions have also criticized reports indicating that Ahluwalia is currently overseas on holiday amid this turmoil, exacerbating concerns regarding his leadership.
Government ministers have not yet addressed the situation. Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro and Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh have remained silent, leading many to question the government’s stance on the mounting conflict.
As the university grapples with employee unrest and operational challenges, attention is focused on how USP’s management will tackle these serious allegations and work to restore stability at this prominent educational institution.