The staff of the University of Goroka (UOG) resumed work yesterday after being forcefully locked out of their offices since last week.
The blockade was the result of Student Representative Council (SRC) led student unrest.
The Police Task Force Unit based in Goroka yesterday enforced a National Court restraining order to remove items blocking the entrances of the Main Quadrangle – which houses offices and lecture rooms.
UOG vice chancellor, Dr Gairo Onagi said the current student unrest that was led by a minority was illegal as proper channels of negotiations had been bypassed.
“I urge the student body to return to classes as there will be no forms of harassment and intimidation from this minority as the restraining order has been effected.
“The Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Honorable Malakai Tabar and Acting Secretary Professor David Kavanamur are aware of the situation and the university management is handling the matter internally,” said Onagi.
He said that disciplinary charges had been issued to students who had breached the rules and regulations and statutes of the university. He said these students had the right to appeal the decision to the council.
“Staff operations are back to normal including the supervision of trainees out in the field on training practice and industrial training. The management will continue to dialogue and talk with the students on concerns they have raised.
“I invite the SRC to have a dialogue with the top management team and let the students and staff return to class and work respectively,” said Onagi.