The University of the South Pacific (USP) is contemplating legal action against Jone Maretino Nemani, the Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations. An email sent to all USP staff from Agnes Kotoisuva, the executive director for People’s and Workplace Strategy, indicated this potential course of action.
Kotoisuva noted that the University Staff and Support Staff Union (USPSU) and the Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) plan to strike on Friday, October 18, 2024, over issues that the university management believes fall outside the scope of their collective contracts and employment conditions. She stated that the university is taking legal steps in response to rulings from the Permanent Secretary.
The unions have demanded the resignation of Professor Pal Ahluwalia, USP’s vice-chancellor and president, citing concerns related to leadership rather than human resources. Their grievances emerged following the outcomes of a Special Council meeting.
Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh has not yet provided a public response to the situation. Meanwhile, USPU general secretary Reuben Colata expressed strong disapproval of the university’s consideration of legal action. He remarked that such a move would essentially place the government, a major supporter of the university, in court. Colata expressed confusion over the reasons behind this potential legal action and hoped for a resolution based on common sense.
As of the time of publication, questions sent to USP have not received a reply.