The Minister of Education, Aseri Radrodro, has contacted the Pro Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific (USP) and the university council secretariat to seek clarification on recent events at the institution. Radrodro revealed that a special council meeting conducted in September decided to engage an independent investigator to look into allegations against Vice Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia.
Recently, dissatisfied members of the USP staff union staged a strike, demanding the suspension of the Vice Chancellor to ensure a smooth independent investigation. Although the council has agreed to initiate an independent inquiry, the specific terms for this inquiry have not yet been finalized. The initial plan was to present the report at the upcoming Council Meeting next month.
The unions have expressed concerns that the delay in finalizing the inquiry terms is deliberate, noting that the Council Secretariat operates under the Vice Chancellor’s direction.
“We are actively engaging with the council, Pro Chancellor, and the secretariat to establish a timeline for the agreed processes,” Radrodro stated. “This encompasses the appointment of the visitor and the independent investigator. It is crucial that all agreed actions are implemented to address the staff unions’ concerns.”
He highlighted that inquiries have been sent multiple times, from Fiji and other council members, requesting updates on the council’s stance regarding the situation at USP.
While he acknowledged the end of the strike, Radrodro stressed that the ministry will continue to advocate for a peaceful resolution between management and staff on these issues. “We aspire for a resolution that enables both parties to concentrate on the university’s operations and improvement, ensuring that students are not negatively impacted as exams approach,” he remarked.
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