Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Acting Prime Minister Filimoni Vosarogo have not yet responded to inquiries from The Fiji Times regarding the legal basis for the recent reassignment of the Fiji National University (FNU). The decision to transfer oversight of FNU from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development, and Statistics, announced by Vosarogo on Monday, has sparked public scrutiny.
Inquiries directed to the Prime Minister sought to clarify the legal framework justifying this significant move. Questions were raised about whether Rabuka plans to formally take charge of the Education portfolio through an official gazettal or pursue amendments to the Fiji National University Act in Parliament to support the reassignment. Analysts are concerned that any directives regarding FNU from the Prime Minister’s office could lack legal validity without these legal processes being followed.
Fears have been voiced by political and legal experts, noting that without adhering to the Act or revising it, the directives from the Prime Minister could be seen as legally questionable. This uncertainty casts doubt on the recognition of such directives by FNU’s council, management, or staff.
Responding to the situation, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro confirmed that he had notified the FNU Council about the management change aligned with the Prime Minister’s direction. Vosarogo has promised to address the concerns raised at a later date, stating that he plans to present any necessary legislative changes to Cabinet after the Prime Minister returns from his international engagements. He also emphasized that the Prime Minister holds constitutional authority over ministerial responsibilities, including adjustments to FNU’s organizational structure within the public service.
This ongoing situation underscores important discussions about governance and adherence to legal protocols within Fiji’s education sector. Stakeholders are keen to see how the government resolves these issues and what steps will be taken to ensure the lawful and effective management of FNU as these transitions unfold. With proper communication and adherence to legal frameworks, there is hope for a resolution that strengthens the governance of education in Fiji while fostering public trust.