Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is urging the Fiji Government to take decisive action to resolve the ongoing standoff between the University of the South Pacific (USP) and two staff unions. In a statement, Seruiratu emphasized that the government must not remain passive while the educational future of children and the region is threatened.
He called for strong leadership, insisting that USP should maintain its reputation as a top institution that nurtures future leaders in the Pacific Islands and beyond. Seruiratu has supported calls from the Association of USP Staff and the University of the South Pacific Staff Union for Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia to take a leave of absence while investigations into the unions’ concerns are carried out, stating that such a request is not unreasonable.
The conflict between the Australian University Staff Union and the USP Staff Union against the management has now extended into its fifth day. Seruiratu expressed concern over the timing of the standoff, which comes just before important assessments for students at USP.
He pointed out that the situation stems from prolonged tensions between the USP administration and its staff, which could have been avoided if the management had addressed the employees’ grievances earlier. Seruiratu found it troubling that USP management described the strike as concerning issues outside the scope of collective contracts and employment conditions.
He suggested that USP management should request the intervention of the Council if they cannot resolve the issues presented by the striking staff. According to Seruiratu, the Council serves as the appointing authority for the Vice-Chancellor of the university.
The Opposition Leader stressed that the standoff must not continue to negatively impact students’ education. He stated the accusations made by the staff association are serious and warrant thorough investigation. He highlighted that if contracts for accomplished academics at USP, who have dedicated themselves to the institution, are not being renewed, it requires immediate action from all relevant stakeholders.
FijiLive has sought comments from Education Minister Aseri Radrodro and USP regarding the situation.