The Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of the South Pacific (USP), Professor Pal Ahluwalia, is facing renewed controversy, with staff unions calling for his resignation. The University of the South Pacific Staff Union (USPSU) and the President of the University Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) have organized protests at USP’s Laucala Campus, demanding Mr. Ahluwalia’s immediate removal.
The unions contend that his leadership is ineffective and are urging the university’s Special Council to investigate management and human resources problems that have arisen during his tenure. This situation is particularly notable as many union members previously supported Mr. Ahluwalia’s return to Fiji following his contentious deportation by the former government. What once was enthusiasm for his leadership has shifted to frustration and dissatisfaction.
A primary concern among the unions is the dismissal of biologist and former AUSPS president Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, who was terminated in July after a controversial interview with Islands Business, which Mr. Ahluwalia labeled as a breach of contract confidentiality and categorized as “gross misconduct.”
The strike has led to class disruptions, leaving some students arriving to find empty classrooms, unaware of the protests. The unions are additionally upset over reports that Professor Ahluwalia is currently abroad on holiday amid this crisis, raising further doubts about his leadership capabilities.
Government ministers have yet to respond to the unfolding situation. Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has not addressed inquiries, and Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh has similarly remained silent, leading to questions about the government’s stance on the escalating dispute.
As the university deals with staff discontent and operational challenges, attention is focused on USP’s management to respond to these serious allegations and work towards restoring stability in this prominent educational institution.