The Code of Conduct is for all constituencies of the MERSETA and members of committees and any other MERSETA stakeholder structure including ad-hoc structures is subject to the Code of Conduct.

The MERSETA and its members, are committed to a policy of fair dealing and integrity in the conduct of their business. This commitment, which is actively endorsed by the MERSETA, is based on a fundamental belief that business should be conducted honestly, fairly and legally. The Governing Board expects all members of the MERSETA to share its commitment of high moral, ethical and legal standards.

This document outlines the MERSETAs Code of Conduct ("the Code"), which applies equally to all members of the MERSETA. Compliance with the Code by all members is mandatory.

Members must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, which regulate their activities for and on behalf of the MERSETA.

Where a member is unable to attend a meeting he/she shall inform the Chairperson of the Committee no later than forty eight (48) hours prior to the meeting.

Gifts, hospitality and entertainment may only be offered to a third party if they are consistent with customary business practice, modest in value, not in contravention of any applicable law and where public disclosure thereof would not embarrass the MERSETA.

A member should not accept gifts, hospitality or other favours from suppliers of goods or services. However, acceptance of the following would not be considered contrary to such policy:

Members may not accept personal favours or other preferential treatment that might in return place the recipient under any obligation.

Unsolicited gifts, not within reasonable and acceptable limits, should be returned or donated to a reputable charity. The recipient of an unsolicited gift, not within reasonable and acceptable limits, must immediately advise the Chief Executive Officer of such unsolicited gifts, in which case the latter will resolve to return the gift, alternatively donate it to a respectable charitable organisation.

No committee member is entitled to remuneration with the exception of the members of the Audit Committee.

The MERSETA's books and records must reflect all business transactions in an accurate and timely manner in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Non-disclosure of revenues, expenses, assets or liabilities is not permitted. Members responsible for the accounting and record-keeping functions are expected to be diligent in enforcing proper practices.

In the regular course of business, the MERSETA, accumulates a considerable amount of infomation. The following principles are to be observed:

Only information necessary to the MERSETAs business shall be collected, used and retained. Personal information should be obtained directly from the person or organisation concerned. Only reputable and reliable sources should be used to supplement this information.

No confidential information may be disclosed by any member, including but not limited to information regarding products, plans, business transactions, personal information, salaries, without prior authorisation unless in the ordinary course of business.