Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is urging the Fiji Government to take immediate action to resolve the ongoing conflict between the University of the South Pacific (USP) and its two staff unions. Seruiratu emphasized that the Government must not remain passive while the future of students in the region is compromised.
During his remarks to FijiLive, he stressed the importance of strong leadership in this situation. Seruiratu insisted that USP should maintain its reputation as a leading institution that fosters the development of future leaders from the Pacific Islands and beyond.
He supported the demands from the Association of USP Staff and the University of the South Pacific Staff Union, advocating for Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia to take a leave of absence while investigations are conducted into the issues raised by the staff.
Seruiratu described the unions’ requests as reasonable and noted that the standoff, now in its fifth day, is particularly concerning as it coincides with critical assessments for students at USP. He explained that this conflict stems from prolonged tension between the administration and staff, which could have been avoided if the university had taken the time to address employees’ concerns.
He expressed dismay over USP’s assertion that the strike relates to matters perceived by management as outside the scope of collective contracts and employment conditions. Seruiratu called for USP Management to engage the Council for assistance if they are unable to resolve the staff’s grievances, highlighting that the Council holds the authority to appoint the Vice-Chancellor.
The Opposition Leader further asserted that the standoff must not persist at the expense of students’ education, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations made by the staff association that warrant thorough investigation. He raised concerns over the renewal of employment contracts for talented Pacific Islands academics at USP, pointing to the necessity for urgent attention from all parties involved.
FijiLive has sought comments from Education Minister Aseri Radrodro and USP regarding the situation.