Code of Conduct for members of Council

The following guidelines will ensure that members of Council adhere to the Code of Conduct:

Members of Council should:[40]

• fulfil the duties and responsibilities of a member of Council and comply with all statutory obligations;
• act responsibly with public resources used by Unisa and ensure that the University operates as a healthy and viable concern;
• act in good faith and in the best interest of the University when performing their duties;
• use personal skills, expertise and knowledge for the benefit of the University;
• undertake any training necessary to improve effectiveness as a member of Council;
• work cooperatively with other members of Council;
• declare any possible conflict of interest. The Code of Conduct [41]  specifically provides for a procedure regarding disclosure of conflict of interest;
• support and uphold any final majority decisions of Council;
• ensure confidentiality of all Council matters which should be kept confidential;
• refrain from using Council membership for personal benefit or benefit of any other person or group;
• understand the educational direction of the University and evaluate its operations;
• contribute to the policies of the University, the implementation of which is the responsibility of the Principal and Vice Chancellor; and
• prepare for and attend meetings.

A code of conduct, approved by Council during July 2004, is attached as Annexure I. It is
incumbent upon every member of Council to acquaint himself/herself with the content thereof and to adhere to it.

[40] The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand. 1999. Council governance handbook.
[41] See paragraph 2.2.3.5  and Annexure B of the Code of Conduct.

Approved - Management Committee -  17.01.06
(c) 2006 UNISA