Several students from the University of the South Pacific have joined a strike demanding transparency and accountability. The protest, which commenced last Friday, includes not only students but also members of the USP Staff Union and the Association of USP Staff. They are calling for the suspension of Vice-Chancellor Pal Ahluwalia.
Student Tamarisi Adi Luvuca Sakai expressed a desire for changes within the university system. During the strike, she and her fellow students showcased placards and wore red t-shirts alongside the staff members. She noted that their classes have not been disrupted, especially with examinations approaching. “Our tutors and lecturers have made sure that we are well equipped with exam reviews that would aid us with studying,” she stated.
Third-year student Timoci Qimaqima echoed her sentiments, saying that supporting the staff has not hindered his studies. “I wouldn’t really say that it affects me because they’re doing something that’ll improve students’ studies,” he commented. “If they’re doing this to improve our learning environment, then I don’t really think I’m affected in this situation.”
First-year student Waielagi Rabonu, who has been actively following the strike, expressed her confidence in the ongoing action. “This strike will continue because so far we have received no word yet from the University about the demands,” she said.
Reuben Colata, President of the USP Staff Union, acknowledged the students’ involvement in the protest, highlighting that the university cannot prevent students from voicing their concerns, as their education is at stake.
USP students are scheduled to take their exams in the next two weeks on November 4 and 5. Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhary visited the university to show his support for the protesters outside Mr. Ahluwalia’s office.