The Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of the South Pacific (USP), Professor Pal Ahluwalia, is facing increasing pressure as staff unions demand his resignation. The University of the South Pacific Staff Union (USPSU) and the President of the University Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) organized protests at USP’s Laucala Campus, calling for his immediate removal.
The unions contend that under Ahluwalia’s leadership, the university is experiencing significant management and human resources issues, prompting a call for the university’s Special Council to conduct an investigation. This development is particularly notable as many current staff had previously supported Ahluwalia’s return to Fiji following his controversial deportation by the prior administration. However, their initial enthusiasm has since transformed into frustration and dissatisfaction.
One major concern for the unions is the termination of biologist and former AUSPS president Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, who was dismissed in July after giving an interview to Islands Business. Ahluwalia described her actions as a breach of contract and cited “gross misconduct” as the reason for her dismissal.
The strike has caused class disruptions, with some students showing up to empty classrooms unaware of the ongoing situation. Additionally, the unions expressed anger over reports that Professor Ahluwalia is currently abroad on holiday during this crisis, raising further questions about his leadership.
Meanwhile, government officials have refrained from commenting on the matter. The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, and the Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh, have not responded to inquiries, leaving many uncertain about the government’s stance regarding the escalating conflict.
As USP navigates through staff discontent and operational disruptions, attention is focused on how the management will respond to these serious allegations and work to restore stability at this leading educational institution in the region.