The Association of the University of the South Pacific Staff Union (AUSPS) and the University of the South Pacific Staff Union have announced a strike action against Vice Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia, scheduled for tomorrow. This decision has been confirmed by the AUSPS Office.
The strike is rooted in ongoing grievances regarding Professor Ahluwalia’s leadership, which includes significant governance concerns and the recent dismissal of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osborne Naikatini. The action will take place at 8:30 AM at the Laucala Campus.
AUSPS Executive member Ilima Finiasi stated that there is a strong consensus across all campuses in the region calling for Professor Ahluwalia’s resignation. Finiasi mentioned that they maintain regular communication with other unions in the region, highlighting a shared concern about the Vice Chancellor’s impact beyond the Laucala Campus.
In August, a vote among staff favored strike action aiming at the removal of the Vice Chancellor, with 95 percent of Fiji-based staff supporting the decision. This vote included participation from staff in Lautoka, Labasa, and Savusavu.
Despite these unrests, Professor Ahluwalia’s contract was extended for an additional two-year term.