The Ministry of Education is set to hold a special meeting to address ongoing issues at the University of the South Pacific (USP). Education Minister Aseri Radrodro announced that the USP Council will meet to discuss matters such as staff terminations and strike threats, with a focus on ensuring the welfare of Fijian staff members.
During a parliamentary session this week, Mr. Radrodro explained the role and functions of the USP Council, which acts as the university’s executive governing body. He noted that the council has the authority to create ordinances that govern the university and its members.
The council convenes twice a year, with university statutes detailing the membership and appointment processes, including the role of a “visitor,” an official tasked with overseeing governance. The most recent visitor was Sir James Bruce Robertson, a retired magistrate from New Zealand. Mr. Radrodro remarked that the absence of a visitor currently contributes to the ongoing disputes.
He pointed out that the council’s standing orders allow for special meetings to be called if a substantiated written request is made to address specific issues. The government recognizes the concerns raised, noting that approximately 75 percent of the university’s staff are Fijian citizens.
“The issues raised are significant, especially the threats of strikes,” Mr. Radrodro said. He acknowledged that terminated staff members have brought their concerns to the Ministry of Employment. In light of these circumstances, he aims to resolve the issues for the benefit of Fijian staff by organizing a special meeting of the USP.
The government is also committed to maintaining a positive learning and working environment at the university. Mr. Radrodro has updated key officials, including the Prime Minister and the Minister for Employment, to seek solutions to these challenges.