The University of the South Pacific has not yet addressed the demands of two Staff Unions that are calling for the immediate dismissal of Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia. Strike actions by members of the Association of the University of the South Pacific Staff and the USP Staff Union are ongoing.
Last Friday, more than 200 USP staff members protested outside the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, demanding his removal due to unresolved grievances regarding his leadership, which include significant governance concerns and the recent ousting of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osbourne-Naikatini.
In response, USP plans to pursue legal action regarding the Permanent Secretary of Employment’s ruling related to the strike. The university has also warned striking staff that they will not receive pay during the period of their protest. Meanwhile, Professor Ahluwalia is reported to be out of the country.