Ilima Finiasi, an executive member of the University of the South Pacific (USP) Staff Association, has stated that Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia must resign, a sentiment echoed by campuses across the region. In an interview, Finiasi highlighted ongoing communication with various unions throughout the region, noting that the discontent extends beyond just the Laucala Campus.
In response, the University pointed out that it employs over 1,300 staff members across 12 countries, with the two unions representing only 41 percent of its total workforce. The university further clarified that unofficial estimates indicate that approximately 25 percent of Academic and Professional Staff and 28 percent of Administrative Support Staff supported the recent voting initiative.
A statement from the University noted, “The University respects the actions taken by the two unions in accordance with Fiji’s Employment Relations Act.”
The secret ballot conducted on Wednesday at Laucala campus lasted four hours and concluded with 95 percent of the participating USP staff in Fiji supporting a strike. The Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) reported a 61 percent turnout, with 96 percent voting in favor of the strike, while the University Staff and Support Staff Union (USPSU) exhibited significant support as well, with over 70 percent turnout and 94 percent in favor.
This voting comes in the wake of unresolved grievances regarding Professor Ahluwalia’s leadership, including serious governance concerns and the recent dismissal of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, which AUSPS General Secretary Rosalia Fatiaki referred to as the final straw. Staff from USP’s centers in Laucala, Lautoka, Labasa, and Savusavu participated in the voting process.
Additionally, it was noted that Professor Ahluwalia’s contract was recently extended for another two years, set to conclude in 2026.