Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has announced the immediate resignation of Karen Lobendahn, the Director of Marketing and Communication at Fiji National University (FNU). This development follows a series of complaints raised by past and present staff that led to an inquiry into her alleged mistreatment of employees.
Minister Radrodro held a meeting with Vice Chancellor Dr. Unaisi Nabobo and members of the FNU Council to address the numerous concerns articulated by staff members. These complaints reportedly included claims of overwork and unfair treatment, alongside allegations against other staff within FNU’s School of Law.
During the meeting, Radrodro emphasized the importance of prioritizing the students’ welfare in all university operations, urging FNU to address internal issues proactively to avoid reputational damage. The minister underscored the need for proper disciplinary processes within the institution to ensure timely and amicable resolutions to staff grievances.
Following the discussions, it was confirmed that Lobendahn had resigned, and the FNU Council’s report provided to Radrodro acknowledged this decision. The resolution of other grievances, including those involving a senior law lecturer, is expected to be addressed swiftly with feedback anticipated for the Ministry of Education.
Radrodro also reminded FNU of its obligation to adhere to the rule of law in its conduct, reiterating that the university’s administrative practices should align with its duties to prepare students for Fiji’s future workforce. The minister’s proactive engagement represents a hopeful sign for improvements in workplace standards and conditions at FNU, reinforcing the commitment to accountability and integrity in higher education.
This renewed focus on governance and staff welfare paves the way for a more supportive environment for employees and students alike, with the potential for meaningful reforms emerging from this challenging situation.
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