5 February 2021
As the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, I make this statement given the events in the last couple of days at the
University of the South Pacific.
The University is a shining example of regionalism and an institution that we cherish for over 50 years because it
nurtures our greatest treasure, our youth and future leaders. The removal of the Vice-Chancellor from Fiji has caused
consternation among students, staff and Forum Members.
As is the Forum, USP is governed by its Royal Charter, Convention, statutes and ordinances and the USP Council must
ensure that due process is followed.
With this in mind, I encourage the USP Council to negotiate a way forward through this and other challenges to come.
I ask that we all remain mindful of the welfare of our USP students and staff, and do our utmost to uphold the integrity
of our regional institution.