The University of the South Pacific has clarified that its Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, is engaged in official duties and is not on vacation, contrary to some speculations.
This clarification comes as concerns were raised regarding his absence from the Laucala Campus, particularly during a time when staff unions are currently protesting. The university stated that in recent weeks, the Vice-Chancellor has officiated at the opening of the new Solomon Islands Campus in Honiara and attended the graduation ceremony at the Tonga Campus. Moreover, he participated in the Pacific Islands Universities Research Network meeting in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
Currently, Professor Ahluwalia is leading the university’s delegation at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia, Samoa, where he is actively involved in the opening ceremony, exhibitions, and roundtable discussions, as well as co-hosting the announcement of ACU Scholarships by King Charles III.
The university emphasized that the notion of the Vice-Chancellor being on vacation is completely unfounded. They also expressed concern over union members referring to the Laucala Campus as a “marketplace,” highlighting that their facilities are among the best in the country and that they provide a modern learning environment. The recent inauguration of the high-tech Solomon Islands Campus and continuing enhancements at the Emalus and Samoa Campuses underline the university’s commitment to improving facilities.
Additionally, the university clarified that claims regarding pay rise demands being part of the strike are inaccurate. They stated, “The terms and conditions of staff are not included in the official strike mandate.”
The University also supported the call from Education Minister Aseri Radrodro, advocating for the resolution of the dispute through dialogue and adherence to established university processes and Fiji’s Employment Relations Act.