The chairman of the Fiji National University Council, Semesa Karavaki, has expressed significant concern regarding the university’s recent reassignment to the Prime Minister’s Office. He is questioning both the legality and the execution of this transition, indicating that while the initial idea may have been inspired by successful models such as Singapore’s, it has since taken a troubling direction in Fiji.
Karavaki noted that the proposal first emerged about two years ago, coinciding with a decrease in government grant funding for FNU. He firmly believes that although the reassignment has been announced, it lacks legal standing, as it would necessitate changes to existing legislation. “Legally, although FNU has been reassigned, it is not legal,” he stated.
Complicating matters, Karavaki alleged that the rapid nature of this reassignment seems to be a response to a recent directive by the council requiring all senior appointments to be submitted for council approval, as stipulated in the FNU Act. This directive followed an investigation into complaints against the vice-chancellor, during which various issues related to staff promotion and workplace culture were identified.
The chairman added that the reassignment is now viewed by many as an attempt to shield the vice-chancellor from potential disciplinary measures, particularly as her contract is set to expire next month. He conveyed his frustration over the council’s exclusion from critical meetings, stating that they have effectively been cut off from the senior management decisions. “We are left in the dark,” he remarked, highlighting that council members have been directed not to communicate with him.
As the situation evolves, it was reported that Peni Sikivou, the permanent secretary for National Planning, Development, and Statistics, met with the vice-chancellor recently. However, Karavaki emphasized that the council has yet to seek a meeting with the acting Prime Minister. He reiterated that the council’s authority appears to have been marginalized in the ongoing developments surrounding the university.
This situation raises important questions about governance and oversight in educational institutions in Fiji, and how changes in leadership can impact their operational integrity. It invites a broader discussion about ensuring transparency and accountability within the university system, which ultimately aims to serve the best interests of students and the community.
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