The Fijian Teachers Association has expressed strong support for the push to localize the position of vice chancellor at the University of the South Pacific (USP), according to general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga. He noted that union members visited USP staff who participated in a strike this week.
“As a sister union, the Fijian Teachers Association went to meet with the striking staff to show our support,” Manumanunitoga stated. He added that they were informed about the issues the staff were advocating for and were in negotiations with the council, emphasizing the union’s solidarity.
He reiterated the call for the vice chancellor’s position to be filled by a Pacific islander. “We support their desire to have the current vice chancellor removed and replaced by someone from the Pacific,” he said.
Furthermore, Manumanunitoga mentioned that FTA members were informed that the Prime Minister has recognized the staff union strike as legal and within their rights. “They have adhered to all legal requirements before launching the strike and the Prime Minister has instructed the minister to investigate the situation and report back,” he explained.
He emphasized the significance of the Fijian contribution to USP, stating that the nation is the largest financial supporter of the university, highlighting the collective experience many have had with USP. “Even though we have our own national university, we all have been through the University of the South Pacific and we empathize with the concerns being raised by the staff,” he concluded.
Leave a comment