Code of Conduct Policy

1. Who this code applies to

The code applies to learners, staff, facilitators, mentors, volunteers, partners and visitors, in every Meristem space: classrooms, workshops, our Abuja campus, partner training centres, field visits, events and all online channels, including WhatsApp groups and learning platforms.

2. Our core values

• Respect: treat everyone with courtesy, whatever their background, ability, faith, gender or age.
• Integrity: be honest in your work, assessments and dealings with others.
• Safety: follow workshop safety rules and look out for one another.
• Excellence: come prepared, give your best and support others to do the same.
• Community: share knowledge generously and represent Meristem well.

3. Expected behaviour

• Attend punctually and let facilitators know in advance if you cannot attend.
• Wear the required protective equipment in workshops and handle tools and equipment with care.
• Keep shared spaces clean and return equipment in good condition.
• Communicate respectfully in person and online.
• Submit only your own work, and credit others when you use their ideas.

4. Unacceptable behaviour

• Harassment, bullying, intimidation or discrimination of any kind.
• Violence, threats or possession of weapons.
• Cheating, plagiarism or falsifying records and certificates.
• Theft of, or deliberate damage to, property or equipment.
• Attending under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
• Sharing private information or images of others without consent.

5. Academic integrity

Certificates carry weight because assessments are honest. Copying work, using unauthorised help in assessments or submitting someone else's project is a serious breach and may lead to loss of a certificate.

6. Online conduct

The same standards apply online. Do not post offensive, misleading or discriminatory content in Meristem groups or tag Meristem in such content. Respect the privacy of classmates and never record sessions without permission.

7. Reporting a concern

If you experience or see behaviour that breaks this code, tell a facilitator, your programme coordinator or email info@meristemveii.org. Reports are handled confidentially and fairly, and nobody will be penalised for raising a genuine concern.

8. How breaches are handled

Depending on how serious a breach is, outcomes may include a conversation and informal guidance, a written warning, suspension from sessions, removal from a programme or referral to the authorities. Everyone involved will be heard before a decision is made, and learners may appeal in writing within ten working days.