The University of the South Pacific has yet to address the demands of two staff unions calling for the immediate removal of Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia. The strike initiated by members of the Association of the University of the South Pacific Staff and the USP Staff Union is ongoing.
Last Friday, over 200 staff members protested in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, demanding his removal due to unresolved grievances concerning his leadership, which includes serious governance issues and the recent dismissal of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osbourne-Naikatini.
In response, the university plans to pursue legal action against the ruling made by the Permanent Secretary of Employment regarding the strike. Additionally, USP has warned striking staff that they will not receive payment for the duration of the protest.
Meanwhile, it is reported that Professor Pal Ahluwalia is currently outside the country.