University of the South Pacific (USP) vice-chancellor and president Pal Ahluwalia. Photo: USP
Pal Ahluwalia has been reappointed as the vice-chancellor and president of the University of the South Pacific (USP).
Professor Ahluwalia's appointment as the chief executive was confirmed at the 96th USP Council Meeting which concluded in Suva on Tuesday.
On Monday, staff staged a protest calling for better pay and conditions and the vice-chancellor to get the sack for not meeting staff expectations.
They continued their protest on Tuesday.
The Association of USP Staff president Elizabeth Fong said Professor Ahluwalia has failed to deliver for the university's employees.
In a statement, the USP said Ahluwalia's appointment was welcomed by the acting pro-chancellor and USP Council chair and New Zealand government representative, Emeritus Professor Pat Walsh.
"Professor Pal Ahluwalia said the University was delivering its priorities successfully against the backdrop of declining enrolment numbers and financial constraints," the university said.
It said the Council was updated on the finances of the University and noted the ongoing challenges the university continues to face.
"Council also heard from staff representatives and urged the unions and management to work collaboratively in the interest of the University," it said.
The university's main decision making body has also adopted the proposed annual plan for 2024 and approved the financial plan 2024.
"The Council further noted the impact and risks associated with the financial challenges being faced by the University largely due to the decline in student numbers. Management outlined its strategies for mitigating the challenges ahead."
Aggrieved employees of the university showed up dressed in black, holding placards calling for “fair pay” and for Ahluwalia to resign. Photo: Association of The University of The South Pacific Staff