The Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of the South Pacific (USP), Professor Pal Ahluwalia, is facing renewed scrutiny as staff unions call 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 the Laucala Campus, demanding the immediate removal of Professor Ahluwalia.
The unions claim his leadership has been inadequate and are urging the university’s Special Council to investigate management and human resource issues that have arisen during his presidency. This development is notable, considering that many of the protesting staff previously rallied for his return to Fiji following his controversial deportation by the former government. The initial support has since transformed into frustration.
A significant point of contention has been the dismissal of biologist and former AUSPS president Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini. She was terminated in July after participating in an interview with Islands Business, an action Professor Ahluwalia deemed a violation of confidentiality and classified as “gross misconduct.”
The strike has disrupted classes, leaving some students unaware of the situation upon arriving to find empty classrooms. Additionally, there has been outrage over reports that Professor Ahluwalia is currently on holiday overseas during this critical time, further casting doubt on his leadership.
Government ministers have not commented on the unfolding crisis. The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, and the Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh, have both remained silent on the matter, raising questions about the Government’s stance on the escalating conflict.
As the university grapples with staff unrest and operational challenges, attention is focused on USP’s management to address these severe allegations and work towards restoring stability within the prominent educational institution.