The University of the South Pacific (USP) is facing renewed turmoil as staff unions are calling for the resignation of Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia. The University of the South Pacific Staff Union (USPSU) and the President of the University Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) have staged protests at the Laucala Campus, demanding Ahluwalia’s immediate removal.
These unions are expressing dissatisfaction with his leadership and are urging the university’s Special Council to investigate various management and human resources issues that have arisen during his time in office. This shift in sentiment is notable, particularly given that many of these staff members were once vocal supporters of Ahluwalia’s return to Fiji after his controversial deportation by the previous government.
The enthusiasm that once surrounded his leadership has transformed into frustration and discontent. A significant point of contention has been the dismissal of biologist Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, a former AUSPS president. Her termination in July followed an interview where she was accused by Ahluwalia of violating contract confidentiality, which he described as “gross misconduct.”
Classes have been disrupted due to the strike, leaving some students in empty classrooms unaware of the ongoing situation. Additionally, the unions have voiced their dismay over reports that Ahluwalia is currently on holiday abroad during this critical time, further intensifying concerns regarding his leadership.
Government ministers have not responded to inquiries regarding the situation. The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, and the Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh, have not provided any comments, leading many to wonder about the government’s stance on this escalating issue.
As the university grapples with internal dissent and operational challenges, attention is focused on how the management will respond to these serious allegations and work to restore stability in the region’s prominent educational institution.