University of the South Pacific Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia resumes his role leading the regional university today.
Professor Ahluwalia, who was reappointed to the role following his deportation from Fiji and six months in Nauru, will be based at USP’s Samoa campus.
“It has been a challenging time for the University, but I’m proud to have a team that has been vigorous in managing the University and ensuring that our students and staff interests remain paramount. They’ve done great work during my absence,” Professor Ahluwalia said today.
As earlier reported, the USP Council had agreed to offer Professor Ahluwalia a new contract following its meeting on 2 June, 2021.
Professor Ahluwalia says his six months in Nauru have given him a better insight into the experience of regional campuses, and that he is “better positioned than ever to elevate the standards of our regional campuses.”
Meanwhile the USP Student Council says “students across the Pacific region are delighted to hear this news and would like to sincerely thank the University Council for its bold leadership.”
The students’ organisation says it has “full confidence in the leadership of Professor Pal”.
USP Samoa Campus Director, Dr Fanaafi Tagaloa said the Campus is pleased to host Professor
Ahluwalia and his wife, Sandy Price. “Samoa Campus is ready to serve our wider USP Family and to work with Professor Ahluwalia in any way we can.”
Professor Ahluwalia remains in Nauru as he awaits transport to Samoa.