The University of the South Pacific has reaffirmed its commitment to its students amid the ongoing strike by staff based in Fiji, ensuring that lectures, tutorials, and other educational activities remain largely unaffected. In a recent statement, the university confirmed that all classes are proceeding as planned.
The institution rejected claims from unions regarding widespread class cancellations as completely inaccurate, emphasizing that all essential services, such as the Library, Medical Centre, Student Administrative Services, Counseling, Computer Labs, and Information Technology Services, continue to function smoothly.
While the university acknowledges the rights of union members to participate in the strike, it adheres to the legal principle that wages are earned through work performed. The university stated, “If union members withdraw their labor and do not provide work, the employer does not pay them.”
Furthermore, the university is pursuing legal action based on the ruling of the Permanent Secretary of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, emphasizing that its actions are directed against the ruling, not against individuals. The university believes that the Ministry’s actions are legally unjustified and is appealing this matter in accordance with the Employment Relations Act.
In addition, the University Council has decided to conduct an independent review—not an investigation—of recent human resources decisions, with the findings scheduled to be discussed at its upcoming November meeting. The university has echoed the sentiments of Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, advocating for a resolution through dialogue and adherence to established processes and the Employment Relations Act in Fiji.