Former vice-chancellor and president of the University of the South Pacific, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, is set to provide testimony in a civil lawsuit initiated by former Pacific TAFE CEO, Hasmukh Lal. The lawsuit, which dates back to 2020, centers around claims made by Mr. Lal that his employment contract was wrongfully withheld after being renewed for a three-year term in 2019. He contends that Professor Ahluwalia sought to pressure him into leaving senior management.
Additionally, Mr. Lal alleges that a confidential report authored by the vice-chancellor in 2019 was inappropriately leaked on social media, which he claims has tarnished his reputation. In response, the university, represented by legal counsel Feizal Haniff, has filed a counterclaim asserting that Mr. Lal misappropriated university funds to finance his Doctorate in Business Administration, seeking reimbursement totaling $26,553.55.
During recent court proceedings, Justice Anjala Wati noted that Professor Ahluwalia, who is currently overseas, is expected to provide an extensive account during his testimony. The case has been postponed until March 6, when the court will schedule a date for the continuation of the trial.
This ongoing legal battle highlights the complexities surrounding university governance and the potentially significant implications for all parties involved. The upcoming testimony from Professor Ahluwalia may shed further light on the situation and contribute to an equitable resolution.
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