Students from the University of the South Pacific took to the streets yesterday to protest for changes in teaching methods, expressing concern that many courses are being taught by consultants instead of qualified lecturers.
Reports indicate that the protest led to the dismissal of Dr. Tamara Osborne Naikatini.
Among the demonstrators was Semesa Nawasoni, President of the Yasana ko Ba Student Association, who emphasized that their strike stemmed from unaddressed grievances with the USP Students Association. He noted that decisions are often made without input from students.
“The protest was organized because many students feel their voices are ignored, particularly regarding the selection of teaching staff,” Nawasoni said.
He urged USP management to appoint qualified professionals as teachers and called for greater attention to students’ concerns.
“All we want is for qualified educators to be in the classrooms and for our complaints to be taken seriously,” he added.
From the perspective of the I-Taukei Student Association, President Manasa Navara stated he was unaware of any communication breakdown, asserting that he has consistently relayed student grievances.
“We have been diligent in our communication efforts, so I am uncertain where the disconnect occurred. From my end, I have ensured that all concerns brought to me have been communicated to the authorities,” Navara said.
Sources have confirmed that the student-led protest is likely to continue until a satisfactory resolution is achieved by the USP Student Association, aimed at benefiting both students and staff.
Leave a comment