Pay Cut Threat by University HR

Members of the two University of the South Pacific (USP) staff unions had to choose between attending the strike or their pay cheque.

The University Staff and Support Staff Union (USPU) and the Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) went on strike on Friday demanding the resignation of the university’s vice-chancellor and President (VCP) Professor Pal Ahluwalia.

Their grievances stem from a recent special council meeting outcome which they argued only addressed human resources issues to be investigated over addressing poor leadership of Mr Pal.

More than 200 staff members of the Laucala Campus, who turned up for the peaceful strike had to choose between being paid or skipping the union strike.

An email was sent out to all staff members on Thursday by the USP executive director for People and Workplace Strategy Agnes Kotoisuva regarding staff pay.

“Please note that staff members who are on strike will not be paid for the period they are on strike,” Ms Kotoisuva said.

University of the South Pacific staff supported by some students during the strike at Laucala campus on October 18, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar

“Staff who are members of either of the two unions who do not report to work or keep their normal office hours and who are not on prior-approved leave, will be assumed to be on strike.

“Apart from verified emergencies, no new leave application will be approved for staff given the extenuating circumstances that the strike action has brought upon university operations.”

USPU general secretary Reuben Colata and AUSPS general secretary Rosalia Fatiaki have both condemned the university’s stance.

“Now they threating your job, don’t be swayed, this is your right,” Ms Fatiaki told their members.

Efforts to get from the university and Ms Kotoisuva proved futile when this edition went to press.

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