Fijian government is concerned about governance issues at USP – Sayed-Khaiyum

Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says the Fijian government is concerned about governance issues at the University of the South Pacific after reports emerged that the university’s Executive Committee is currently meeting to decide on the future of Vice Chancellor Pal Ahluwalia.

Sayed-Khaiyum confirms the Audit Committee has highlighted a number of anomalies and the Minister for Education, Rosy Akbar is attending the Executive Committee meeting.

The USP Council Executive Committee is continuing deliberations over an investigation report by the USP Audit and Risk Committee.

As Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Council Winston Thompson walked to the meeting venue at around 10 o’clock this morning, staff and students standing outside screamed out “Go Home Winston”, “Your Time is Over” and “Retire”.

Some USP staff and members of the USP Students Association used their morning tea break to voice their dissatisfaction and show their support for Ahluwalia.

Some of them stood with banners which read “Stop Corruption at USP”, “Winston Must Resign”, “No Illegal Meeting” and “Winston this is not your University” among many others.

As some of the staff voiced their concerns, Vice-Chancellor Aluwhalia looked on from the balcony of his office.

Speaking on behalf of Aluwhalia, USP Communications Manager Vineeta Nand says the Vice-Chancellor was grateful for the support.

Most of those protesting left by 10.30 this morning.