The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, has initiated communication with the Pro Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific (USP) and the university council secretariat regarding recent issues at the university. Following a council meeting in September, it was decided to appoint an independent investigator to look into allegations against Vice Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia.
The situation escalated last week when members of the USP staff union went on strike, calling for the Vice Chancellor’s suspension to facilitate a smooth independent investigation. Although there is council approval for the inquiry, the terms of reference have not yet been finalized, and the report is expected to be presented at the upcoming council meeting.
Union members have suggested that the delay might be intentional, given that the Council Secretariat reports directly to the Vice Chancellor. Radrodro stated that inquiries have been made repeatedly by various council members to obtain updates on the matter.
While the strike has been called off, Radrodro emphasized the ministry’s commitment to fostering a collaborative resolution between staff and management to address the concerns raised. He expressed hope for a solution that would allow the university to focus on its operations, especially with exams approaching, thereby ensuring students are not negatively impacted.
In summary, the ongoing situation at USP involves efforts for transparency and accountability regarding the Vice Chancellor, with a promise of collaboration from the education ministry to ensure a resolution that prioritizes student well-being and operational integrity.
It is encouraging to see the minister prioritizing dialogue and aiming for a peaceful resolution, which is essential for the stability and progress of educational institutions. A collaborative approach could pave the way for a stronger university environment moving forward.
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