The Fiji National University (FNU) is undergoing a significant administrative shift as it is being reassigned under the Prime Minister’s Office Ministerial Portfolio. This change, effective immediately, follows a verbal instruction by the Prime Minister last Tuesday, and will be facilitated via the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics.
According to the FNU Act, the responsibility for the university traditionally falls under the Minister for Education, currently Aseri Radrodro. This unexpected reassignment has sparked widespread discussion and raised questions regarding its alignment with existing legislative frameworks.
The Context Behind the Reassignment
The decision to reassign FNU comes amid ongoing concerns and complaints against the university’s Vice Chancellor, Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, and certain staff members. Last year, these issues prompted the FNU Council, chaired by Semesa Karavaki, to temporarily assume control over the recruitment process for executive appointments, sidelining the Vice Chancellor.
Minister for Education Radrodro was reportedly informed by Peni Sikivou, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics, that the Prime Minister’s directive is now a policy directive. This move is justified as a strategic alignment to enhance national development and capacity building by integrating the university’s functions with 23 ministries.
Implications of the Reassignment
The reassignment of FNU under the Prime Minister’s Office is seen as a move to streamline the university’s role in national development. The finalization of this ministerial direction is currently underway and is expected to be a key agenda item at the next Cabinet meeting.
Acting Prime Minister Filimoni Vosarogo was scheduled to meet with the FNU management today to discuss the transition. However, this meeting has been postponed, with the government planning a series of discussions with the Vice Chancellor and the Senior Leadership Team during the transitional period.
“The reassignment is in consideration of the submission made by the Fiji National University to the Prime Minister, highlighting benefits for both the university and the nation,” Peni Sikivou stated.
Reactions and Future Developments
During this transition, the Vice Chancellor and senior team will collaborate closely with the Prime Minister’s Office through the Permanent Secretary of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics. A letter from Sikivou to the FNU Council has instructed them to pause all activities until further notice from the Prime Minister.
Notably, the FNU Council is not included in the upcoming meeting with Acting Prime Minister Vosarogo, which has raised further questions about the council’s role and influence moving forward.
As the situation develops, stakeholders, including Prime Minister Rabuka, Acting Prime Minister Vosarogo, Minister for Education Radrodro, and FNU representatives, are expected to provide further clarification. The government aims to ensure that the transition is smooth and beneficial for all parties involved.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to monitor this evolving story.
