The Association of the University of the South Pacific Staff Union (AUSPS) is set to initiate strike action against Vice Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia tomorrow. This was confirmed by the AUSPS Office, citing unresolved grievances concerning Ahluwalia’s leadership, particularly related to significant governance issues and the recent dismissal of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osborne Naikatini.
The strike is scheduled for 8:30 AM at the Laucala Campus. Ilima Finiasi, an executive member of the USP Staff Association, emphasized the widespread discontent with Professor Ahluwalia’s leadership, indicating that staff across all campuses in the region are advocating for his removal.
Finiasi mentioned that there has been continuous communication with other unions across regional campuses, highlighting a collective call for action. He pointed out that the concerns regarding the Vice Chancellor extend beyond the Laucala Campus and are impacting the entire region.
In August, the association conducted a vote that showed overwhelming support for strike action aimed at removing the Vice-Chancellor, with 95% of staff in Fiji in favor of the move, including participation from staff in Lautoka, Labasa, and Savusavu. Despite these issues, Professor Ahluwalia’s contract has recently been extended for an additional two-year term.