Fiji Opposition Seeks Clarity on University Oversight Amidst Governance Concerns

Questions surrounding the governance and accountability of the Fiji National University (FNU) have been brought to the forefront in Parliament, with the Opposition voicing significant concerns. MP Premila Kumar has specifically pointed to the prolonged delays in appointing a council for the university, a body crucial for its effective functioning and oversight. The fact that FNU has been moved under the Prime Minister's office without a council in place for an extended period raises serious questions about transparency and good governance, according to the Opposition.

The Opposition's critique centers on the perceived lack of timely action in investigating and resolving issues within the institution. Kumar emphasized that the FNU council's inaction for nearly eighteen months is unacceptable and undermines public trust. The call is for robust procedures that ensure swift and effective oversight, learning from the current situation to prevent future lapses.

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In the last parliament session, FNU has been moved to the PM’s office, and until today, there is no FNU council appointed. My question to you is, learning the lesson from this example, what procedures are there in place so that the council investigates the matter in a timely manner? In the case of FNU, the FNU council sat on it for almost one and a half years. Now, that is not transparency, and that is not good governance. So if you can tell us the procedure.

In response, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro assured Parliament that universities in Fiji operate within a defined legal and regulatory structure, overseen by the Higher Education Commission. He detailed existing governance and accountability mechanisms, including review processes and compliance requirements. The Minister indicated that ongoing reforms, such as performance-based funding and independent audits, are aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability across the university system. While the Opposition presses for immediate action and clearer protocols, the government maintains that established frameworks are in place and undergoing continuous improvement.

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It’s part of the review process in terms of the good governance of the university. So the Fiji Higher Education Commission will be able to undertake this process during the renewal of the universities, as you might be fully aware, where the fit and proper process of individual council members or board members will be taken into consideration.