Prime Minister Sovaleni Raises Alarm Over USP Crisis Impacting Tongan Students
Tonga’s Prime Minister, Siaosi Sovaleni over the week-end on X, expressed his concern regarding the ongoing developments at the University of the South Pacific (USP), especially given the significant number of Tongan students enrolled there.
The situation revolves around potential strike action by USP staff unions due to unresolved issues with management.
The Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) is providing management with “one more chance to come to the table” before resorting to a strike.
Rosalia Fatiaki, the AUSPS general secretary, emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns through negotiation, expressing hope for a resolution while also highlighting the impact such actions could have on students.
Fatiaki cited the refusal of management to negotiate salary adjustments as a key issue leading to the potential strike.
She noted that staff had missed out on salary adjustments in previous years and emphasized the need for a fair increase to match the cost of living, especially considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, concerns were raised about USP’s reduction in superannuation contributions during the pandemic, which the union is demanding to be restored.
Fatiaki also mentioned a lack of engagement from USP’s side, citing financial reasons for withholding pay.
Previously, AUSPS members had protested, calling for the resignation of the university’s vice-chancellor due to perceived non-responsiveness to union concerns.
In response to these developments, the USP stated its willingness to engage in further negotiations to find a mutually agreeable solution.
The Tongan Prime Minister’s involvement could greatly aid in reaching a resolution, particularly given the significant number of Tongan students affected. If he were to offer concrete support or assistance to facilitate dialogue between the parties involved, it could prove invaluable.
However, if the Prime Minister’s comment merely expresses concern without tangible action or support for mediation, its impact might be limited. Therefore, the effectiveness of the PM’s comment hinges on whether it is followed by tangible support or intervention to help broker a deal, especially considering the number of Tongan students at stake.
