The University of the South Pacific in Crisis: Staff Demands Answers

A recent statement by a group of concerned alumni of the University of the South Pacific (USP) has highlighted the institution’s delay in releasing the outcomes of its 98th Council meeting. The alumni, who expressed their disappointment with the university’s lack of transparency, have called for the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, to step down.

The Situation at the USP Council Meeting

The USP Council meeting, held in Rarotonga in late November, was attended by staff unions and other stakeholders. The alumni group expressed their frustration with the university’s failure to provide timely updates on the meeting’s outcomes, citing that this lack of transparency is “totally unacceptable”. They also pointed out that the strike action mandate is currently active, making it even more crucial for the university to keep taxpayers and fee-paying students informed about important decisions.

Allegations of Professor Ahluwalia’s Resignation

Earlier this week, there were rumors circulating that Professor Pal Ahluwalia had resigned from his role as Vice-Chancellor and President. However, the USP has denied these claims, stating that they are “inaccurate”. The university did not respond to specific questions regarding the fate of their leader.

New Appointments at the USP

Despite the controversy surrounding Professor Ahluwalia’s status, the USP Council meeting resulted in several important decisions. A new Vice-Chancellor and President has been appointed, Mr Daniel Fatiaki, a former Chief Justice of Fiji and Vanuatu. Additionally, a new USP Visitor has also been appointed.

A Summary of Major Decisions

According to the alumni group’s statement, some of the key decisions made at the meeting include:

* The appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor and President
* The appointment of a new USP Visitor, Mr Daniel Fatiaki
* Other major outcomes that will be announced in due course by the University of the South Pacific

Conclusion

The situation at the USP is complex and multifaceted. While the university has denied allegations of Professor Ahluwalia’s resignation, the alumni group’s concerns about transparency and accountability remain valid. As the institution navigates its current challenges, it is essential that stakeholders, including staff, students, and taxpayers, are kept informed about important decisions.

The University of the South Pacific is jointly owned by 12 Pacific Island nations, with New Zealand and Australia providing core funding since its inception in 1968. It remains to be seen how the university will address the concerns raised by its alumni group and what steps will be taken to ensure transparency and accountability moving forward.