The Association of the University of the South Pacific Staff (AUSPS) has voiced significant concerns regarding the university’s slow response in launching investigations. In a recent statement, the AUSPS accused the USP Council Secretariat, which operates under the Vice-Chancellor, of causing delays that raise questions about the investigation’s independence and fairness.
The Association noted that a Special USP Council Meeting took place four weeks ago, yet the ‘terms of reference’ for the investigation remain incomplete, with the November Council meeting approaching rapidly. AUSPS has called for prompt and unbiased investigations, free from delays or interference.
Additionally, the AUSPS pointed out that classes have been disrupted due to staff participating in the strike, contradicting the university’s claim that there has been little impact on class schedules. They mentioned that students are also participating in the strike, leading to some classrooms being closed as reported by the media.
The AUSPS accused Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia of unresponsiveness and lack of transparency towards the unions, noting that out of the four quarterly meetings required, only one has occurred this year. Furthermore, essential Staff Policy Committee Meetings, which address critical issues and grievances, have not been convened this year, with only two meetings held last year.
The AUSPS emphasized that this disengagement indicates that the Vice-Chancellor is not prioritizing communication with staff. They highlighted that no senior management members have visited the strike site to engage with protesting staff, suggesting that the university’s leadership does not grasp the Pacific approach to dialogue.
AUSPS reiterated that the staff strike is a result of valid, long-standing concerns, and criticized the ongoing delays as damaging trust in the university’s leadership. They urged the Council to establish a timeline for the investigation and ensure that a report is prepared before the upcoming November Council Meeting.