Students from the University of the South Pacific held a significant march yesterday, advocating for changes in the teaching methods at their institution. They expressed concerns that many of their courses are being taught by external consultants rather than qualified lecturers.
Reports indicate that the demonstration led to the dismissal of Dr. Tamara Osborne Naikatini.
Among the participants was Semesa Nawasoni, President of the Yasana ko Ba Student Association, who highlighted that part of the protest stemmed from unresolved grievances within the USP Students Association. He stated that many decisions are being made without proper consultation with the student body.
“The protest was triggered by students feeling their concerns regarding teaching staff are not being acknowledged,” Nawasoni remarked. He urged the university’s management to recruit qualified professionals to teach and stressed the importance of listening to student voices.
“All we want is for teaching professionals to be placed where they should be and for our concerns to be genuinely considered,” he added.
From the I-Taukei Student Association’s viewpoint, President Manasa Navara expressed surprise at the communication breakdown, asserting that he has consistently relayed student grievances to the relevant authorities.
“We have been diligent in our communication, so I am uncertain where the disconnect occurred. I believe I have done everything possible to ensure students’ concerns are addressed,” Navara stated.
Meanwhile, sources have confirmed that the student-led protest is likely to continue until the USP’s Student Association reaches a decision that is beneficial for both students and staff.
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