A whistleblower has revealed serious allegations of corruption at the University of Fiji.
The University of Fiji. Photo: University of Fiji
RNZ Pacific has received a four-page document titled 'The Nexus of Corruption at the University of Fiji' which lists up to 10 allegations of professional misconduct including the mismanagement of tens-of-thousands of dollars in university finances and favouritism and nepotism in staff appointment processes.
RNZ Pacific put the allegations via email to the newly appointed vice chancellor of the university, Shaista Shameem, who has been acting in the role since April 2020.
Professor Shameem replied saying a comprehensive response against the allegations will be provided "at the earliest".
She said, in the meantime, as vice-chancellor she "sent a clear message" on Friday "to all staff and students of the University that she will expect quality performance from all at the University pursuant to the new Strategic Plan 2022-2026."
The University of Fiji is headquartered in Lautoka and has two campuses.
It is privately run by the Hindu religious organisation, Arya Prathinidhi Sabha of Fiji.
The university is a recipient of Fijian Government grants as a higher education institution and was allocated over $FJ2.7 million for the 2020-2021 financial year.
More to come on this developing story