We continue to work with the staff unions regarding their grievances - USP

The University of the South Pacific stresses its management team continues to work with the staff unions regarding their grievances since it was raised earlier this year.

While responding to questions sent by fijivillage News, USP says through its meeting with the association of the USP Staff, the USP management has resolved some of the matters raised in the log of claims while discussions continue on the remaining issues.

USP says in October 2022, all USP staff received salary increments and the second increase came into effect in January 2023.

The university says the staff also received a bonus in the middle of this year.

It says negotiations are continuing, and provisions have been made for another salary increase next year, subject to the USP Council approving the 2024 budget.

The USP management states that the Chair of the council approves the council agenda, and the USP management does not have a say in the matter.

They also say as stated several times previously, the Vice Chancellor’s relocation is decided by the Council.

USP says the institution, as always, supports union rights and acknowledges that a peaceful protest is within its ambit, however, they remain hopeful that through the USP management, they can continue to have discussions with the Association of USP Staff about their grievances and follow proper channels to meet their demands until an amicable solution is reached.