By Tony Hiriasia Jnr
Students at the regional university in Suva have been given a choice to join the staff union strike but the student body will not be involved.
The University of the South Pacific Students Association (USPSA) released a statement, in response to the planned strike by the Fiji-based staff Union at the Laucala Bay campus in Suva today.
The strike has raised concerns over potential negative impacts on students’ education and overall campus life.
“The spread of misinformation has prompted some members of the association to join the strike, based on exaggerated claims in regard to the issue at hand”, according to the statement from USPSA.
The student body has made it clear that students are welcomed to show their support for the strike, however the student body as a whole is not connected to the Union’s actions.
The statement highlighted, serious concerns over the key agenda of the staff union in relation to the strike, the removal of the current vice-chancellor and president, which the USPSA feels might not be in compliance with the laws governing the vice-chancellor’s discipline in USP.
The student body highlighted that undermining these legal procedures could compromise the rights of staff members and disrupt the university’s rule of law.
According to the student body (USPSA), “The strike poses a significant threat to the academic schedules of students, particularly with the final examinations approaching.” “Class disruptions and interruptions to necessary services could seriously affect the educational progress of students”.
The student body called for open dialogue and respect of different viewpoints while restating its appreciation for the important contributions made by all staff members.
“We urge all parties involved to engage in constructive discussions to reach a resolution that upholds our educational goals”, the statement concluded.
As tensions continue to rise, the student body (USPSA) urged the university community to be united and understanding amidst the ongoing issues within the university.
