The Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of the South Pacific (USP), Professor Pal Ahluwalia, is facing renewed calls for resignation from staff unions. The University of the South Pacific Staff Union (USPSU) and the President of the University Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) have organized protests at USP’s Laucala Campus, demanding Professor Ahluwalia’s immediate removal.
The unions claim that his leadership has been inadequate and are urging the university’s Special Council to investigate various management and human resources issues associated with his administration. This situation is notable considering that many of the same staff members had previously supported Professor Ahluwalia’s return to Fiji after a controversial deportation by the former government. The initial support has now shifted to feelings of frustration and discontent.
A significant point of contention is the dismissal of biologist and former AUSPS president Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini. Dr. Osborne-Naikatini was let go in July following an interview with Islands Business, which Professor Ahluwalia labeled as a breach of contract confidentiality, referring to it as “gross misconduct.”
The strike action has led to class disruptions, with some students arriving at classrooms without knowledge of the situation. The unions have also voiced their anger regarding reports that Professor Ahluwalia is currently on holiday abroad during the ongoing crisis, raising further doubts about his leadership.
In the meantime, government ministers have not addressed the issue. Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has not responded to inquiries, and Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh has also remained silent. This lack of response has raised questions regarding the government’s stance on the escalating conflict.
As USP grapples with staff unrest and operational challenges, there is heightened attention on the management’s response to these serious allegations and their efforts to restore stability at the region’s premier educational institution.