Outgoing HECF chair claims sudden removal was 'unethical', linked to $7m grant dispute

The outgoing chairperson of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) has slammed his sudden replacement as “unethical” and “unprofessional”.

Steve Chand claims he was removed after refusing to approve a controversial $7 million grant to Pacific Polytech.

His replacement, Rokobua Naiyaga, was appointed by Education Minister Aseri Radrodro on February 18, while expressions of interest for the role remain open until February 27.

Speaking from India yesterday, Mr Chand said the move undermined proper process.

“Very simple. It’s not rocket science,” he said. “That’s unethical, unprofessional. Many people wanted to apply, but he’s already appointed someone.”

Mr Chand said signing the grant would have exceeded his legal authority, known as ultra vires, because the Commission had never approved the grant in the first place.

The $7 million grant has been at the centre of controversy for months.

The commission had refused to release funds because Pacific Polytech missed submission deadlines and was not fully registered when it first applied.

A parliamentary committee had earlier recommended stopping all future grants to the institution, though that report was later withdrawn.

Ms Naiyaga was sworn in yesterday.

Mr Radrodro defended the appointment, citing the need to fill the role “promptly” to avoid disruption to the commission’s governance work.

Questions have also been raised over Mr Chand’s tertiary qualifications.

He declined to comment directly, pointing to the Higher Education Act 2008, which allows industry leaders to serve on the commission.

Mr Radrodro had not responded to requests for comment at the time of going to press.

HECF director Eci Naisele could not be reached for a comment.

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