The Vice Chancellor of the National University of Samoa, Professor Fui Asofou So'o, has been suspended by cabinet pending the outcome of an internal investigation into the university.
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The government has also placed on special leave the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic and Research, Peseta Dr Desmond Lee Hang, and the Deputy Vice Chancellor Corporate Services, Maugaoali'i Ufagalilo Mualia.
The Samoa Observer quoted the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, Loau Keneti Sio, as saying that cabinet's decision was based on the recommendation of the National University of Samoa (NUS) Council.
He said allegations against the Vice Chancellor and two Deputy Vice Chancellors warranted an internal investigation to clear the air.
According to the minister, there were complaints from the public about students graduating when they shouldn't have and he hopes the investigation will help clarify exactly what happened.
The NUS Council forwarded its recommendation to cabinet last week before the NUS graduation and cabinet acted on the recommendation on Wednesday, 10 April.
The decision to suspend the three was effective immediately.