THE Fiji National University (FNU) Council is calling for an independent investigation into governance and management issues, including complaints against vice-chancellor, said council chairman Semesa Karavaki.
In a statement, Mr Karavaki said the council had previously raised concerns about complaints originating from whistleblowers and academic staff.
“The council focused on contentious matters surrounding appointments within the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, as well as the awarding of academic titles such as professors, assistant and associate professorships,” he said.
Mr Karavaki added that the vice-chancellor had been informed that, given the gravity of the allegations, she would be placed on leave pending further investigation.
“The council also resolved that all job advertisements and contract renewals for senior positions would require council approval, and an external review process was being finalised to identify gaps through an HR audit.”
The council expressed concern about the vice-chancellor’s independent consultations with government officials on the university’s legislative review without respecting the council’s authority.
According to Mr Karavaki, the situation at FNU shows “multiple red flags consistent with cases internationally where academic university appointment integrity has been compromised,” citing allegations of executive overreach, statutory governance bypass, whistleblower complaints, and sudden high-level political reassignment during ongoing internal disciplinary processes.
Council chairman seeks urgent meeting with PM
FIJI National University Chancellor and Council chairman Semesa Karavaki has sought an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka over the controversial reassignment of the university to the Prime Minister’s Office, citing concerns over process, governance and accountability.
In a formal letter, Mr Karavaki said he was the only council member present during discussions on the reassignment in 2024 and later attended meetings with Public Service Commission chairman Luke Rokovada.
However, he said the matter was never formally presented to the council and that members were not kept informed of developments.
“The council is not against the reassignment, but the process followed has created division, highlighting gross misconduct by the management against the council,” Mr Karavaki said.
He said the vice-chancellor and senior leadership team had acted independently in submitting the proposal to the Office of the Prime Minister, effectively bypassing the council on a decision of major significance.
Mr Karavaki also raised concerns about the council’s ongoing review of the FNU Act and reports of hostility from management and staff towards council members.
Mr Karavaki said the public backlash following the reassignment had damaged the reputations of both the council and the university.
He added that the council was denied an opportunity to present its position to government leaders, undermining fairness, due process and natural justice.
Despite the dispute, Mr Karavaki said the council remained committed to good governance, transparency and accountability, and to restoring public trust in the university
