Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad has announced that a meeting is scheduled for next week to address the ongoing challenges facing the University of the South Pacific (USP). Despite the forthcoming discussions, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the Government will maintain a hands-off approach regarding the university’s operations.
“We will convene next week to explore potential solutions if there are any issues,” he stated. He further clarified, “The Government will not interfere with the governance framework of the university or with its management decisions. Representatives from the Government are part of the USP Council, and any concerns related to USP will be raised by those members during council meetings.”
In a related matter, Maritino Nemani, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Employment, was questioned this week about the ministry’s intention to mediate between USP management and the staff unions. “Yes, due process is being applied,” Mr. Nemani affirmed.