Fiji National University’s former Vice Chancellor Dr Ganesh Chand’s dismissal from the University is not in any way related to the investigation currently conducted by Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption.

The University’s council chairman and education Minister Dr Mahendra Reddy yesterday confirmed Dr Chand’s employment contract has come to an end because the Council believed it was time for a change in the leadership and introduce new and fresh ideas.

“FICAC’s investigation is very confidential, i did write to them as Chair so they replied and said that it’s improper for them to say while investigation is underway so I didn’t pressure them.”

Earlier this week, FICAC spokesperson Nandhani Vandhana confirmed that an investigation into the university’s affairs began last month but will not reveal further details.

The Education Minister says the Council acknowledges Dr Chand for his contribution to the setting up of the university and the many changes that was brought about however, their work was going to slightly differ from the former vice chancellors.

“Our focus next years is to look at the existing facilities and campuses and build on it so that’s the direction we want to focus on next year is to ensure that what we’re offering is top quality and quality is disheartened by staffing, the overall infrastructure.”

Professor Ian Rouse-the Dean for the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health sciences has been appointed as the Acting Vice Chancellor.

He’s been replaced by Professor Rajat Ganeshwar whos a professor for Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the College as Acting Dean.

Meanwhile, the University Council is looking into the right time to appoint a new Vice Chancellor.