The University of the South Pacific has reaffirmed its dedication to students, emphasizing that it is working to minimize disruptions to lectures, tutorials, and other educational activities amid the ongoing strike by staff located in Fiji.
In a recent statement, the university confirmed that all classes and tutorials are operating according to their schedules. It challenged claims from unions about widespread class cancellations, asserting that these statements are untrue. Additionally, it highlighted that essential services such as the Library, Medical Centre, Student Administrative Services, Counseling, Computer Labs, and IT Services are functioning without interruption.
The University acknowledged the right of union members to strike but stated that wages are provided in exchange for work. “If union members withdraw their labor and do not perform their duties, the employer is not obligated to pay them,” it said.
The University is pursuing legal action regarding the ruling from the Permanent Secretary of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, emphasizing that its dispute is with the ruling, not with individual union members.
It expressed the belief that the Ministry’s actions are legally incorrect and is appealing this decision according to the provisions of the Employment Relations Act.
Moreover, the Council has decided to conduct an independent review of recent human resources decisions, with findings expected to be presented in its November meeting. The University supports Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro’s call for a resolution through dialogue and adherence to the proper processes outlined in both the university’s regulations and Fiji’s Employment Relations Act.