Concerns about intimidation have emerged from some staff members at the University of the South Pacific (USP) following a strike aimed at suspending Vice Chancellor Pal Ahluwalia.
Reuben Colata, the general secretary of the USP Staff Union, reported that staff have faced pressure from the university since last Friday. He mentioned that emails were sent out indicating striking staff members would not receive pay, which contradicts their employment contracts.
Colata noted that the strike gained substantial support, with over 200 staff members—including laboratory technicians, administrative personnel, support staff, cleaners, managers, teaching assistants, and lecturers—joining the call for Mr. Ahluwalia’s removal.
He pointed out that the USP Book Centre issued directives to striking staff, instructing them not to return to work until the strike was concluded. So far, three cases of intimidation have been reported, with one being taken to the Ministry of Labour, which confirmed the intimidatory nature of the actions. The union plans to report two additional cases.
Colata stressed that the strike was conducted in accordance with the Employment Relations Act (ERA), which takes precedence over individual employment contracts. While staff received an email acknowledging their right to strike, he expressed frustration over the university’s delay in affirming this right, suggesting it might have encouraged more participation in the strike.
He emphasized the importance of not disrupting exams and noted that the staff’s primary concern is the removal of the Vice Chancellor. Furthermore, he expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress of the investigation into the Vice Chancellor’s conduct, stating that terms of reference have yet to be established.
Colata also highlighted that the university possesses sufficient funds that could be utilized to pay the Vice Chancellor if necessary, asserting that the strike will persist until the university adequately addresses the issues raised. He reiterated that the motivations behind the strike are focused on improving the university rather than personal interests.
No responses were received from USP by the time this article was published.