ICT TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION OF UGANDA

Constitution

NOTE: This ammended 2022 ITAU CONSTITUTION is a result of the ITAU CONSTITUTION REVIEW WEEK during which we convened daily general meetings with all members of ITAU openly invited to review the 2018 registered constitution of ITAU. During the final summative session held on 5 Sept 2021, a committee was instituted and tasked to compile all the proposed amendments members had submitted: i) during the week-long live, publically youtube-streamed zoom sessions, through all the ITAU WhatsApp groups and other social media, and also submitted as comments at the bottom of the 2018 constitution webpage on the ITAU website. Proposed ammendments will be presented to the upcoming ITAU AGM in April 2022 for approval, after which ammended constitution will be registered with URSB.

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THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

THE COMPANIES ACT, 2012

COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE WITHOUT SHARE CAPITAL

MEMORANDUM

AND

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

ICT TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION UGANDA LIMITED

(ITAU)

ITAU Constitution as Amended, March, 2022

DRAWN BY:

DIRECTORS

KAMPALA

ARRANGEMENT OF ARTICLES

ARRANGEMENT OF ARTICLES.. iii

1.2 REGISTERED OFFICE OF ITAU.. 1

2.1 OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSOCIATION.. 2

ARTICLE III 4

3.1 MEMBERSHIP.. 4

3.2 RIGHTS OF MEMBERS.. 4

3.3 CESSATION OF MEMBERSHIP.. 6

3.4 OBLIGATIONS OF MEMBERS. 6

3.5 ALLEGIANCE TO THE CONSTITUTION.. 7

ARTICLE IV.. 8

4.1 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE OF THE ASSOCIATION.. 8

4.2 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.. 8

4.3 NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (NEC) 9

4.2.1 Duties of the National Executive Committee. 10

4.2.2 Co-option of Members. 10

4.2.3 Meetings of the National Executive Committee. 10

4.4 THE REGIONAL COMMITTEES.. 11

4.4.1 Establishment of the Regional Committees. 11

4.4.2 Duties of the Regional Committees. 13

4.5 THE SECRETARIAT. 13

4.6 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.. 14

4.6 OFFICE BEARERS OF THE ASSOCIATION AND DUTIES.. 16

4.6.1 National Chairperson. 16

4.6.2 National Vice-Chairperson. 17

4.6.3 National Secretary General 18

4.6.4 National Treasurer 19

4.6.5 National Projects Secretary. 21

4.6.6 National Publicity Secretary. 22

4.6.7 Special Interest Groups Secretary. 23

4.6.8 Regional Chairpersons. 25

4.6.9 National Coordinator 26

ARTICLE V.. 27

5.1 GENERAL ELECTIONS.. 27

5.2 GROUNDS FOR DISQUALIFICATION.. 28

5.3 BY-ELECTION.. 28

5.4 VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE.. 29

5.5 NEC DISSOLUTION.. 29

5.6 RESIGNATION AND SUSPENSION FROM OFFICE.. 29

ARTICLE VI 31

6.1 ASSOCIATION FUNDS.. 31

6.2 REMUNERATION AND ALLOWANCES OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS. 32

ARTICLE VII 33

7.1 AMENDMENTS.. 33

ARTICLE VIII 33

8.1 INTERPRETATION.. 33

APPENDIX.. 33

DECLARATION

We, the members of “ICT TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF UGANDA, herein after referred to as (ITAU)”,

COGNIZANT that we have a constitutional right of freedom of assembly, association and expression and thus capable of joining this association as enshrined in Article 29 clause 1 (e) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda 1995 as amended and that the establishment, activities and management of associations should be in conformity with the Constitution and Laws of Uganda;

RECOGNIZING the high demand for; ICT skills as a major requirement for employment, ICT literacy and Integration in Education and other spheres of daily life, and the need to reduce the digital divide in the country;

MINDFUL of the challenges to our work as teachers of Computer Studies and / or ICT across all levels of education in Uganda;

CONVINCED that the responsibility to better our knowledge, skills and address some of our challenges lies within ourselves cooperating at all levels;

AFFIRM OUR WILL to work tirelessly together to support the community of ICT teachers to innovatively improve in our methods of work, thereby promoting ICT education and increasing computer literacy in Uganda. This we shall do through coordinated discussion platforms, workshops, seminars, events, national ICT competitions, debates, regular meetings, member guidance and counseling, resource sharing, projects and financial contributions;

DO HEREBY declare, to bind ourselves and our successors by this adopted constitution as the CONSTITUTION of ITAU

on this ……..……….. ………..day of ………………………….….., the year 2022.

On behalf of the association, the undersigned are some of the distinguished founding members of ITAU adopting this constitution:

№	MEMBER DETAILS	CONTACTS	SIGNATURE
1.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
2.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
3.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
4.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
5.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
6.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
7.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
8.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
9.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:
10.	NAME:	TEL:
ADDRESS:	EMAIL:

NB: Additional sheets may be inserted.

Sheet No ………………. Of ……………..

DEFINITIONS

“AGM” is an acronym for Annual General Meeting.
”Annual’, or ”Annual Meeting” refer to and comply with the Academic calendar of the Ministry of Education and Sports.
“Affiliate Member” refers to a member from any organization by the Association.
”Annual Accounts” mean the balance sheet; the statement of income and expenditure; the statement of expenses and application of funds.
“Associate member” refers to a member who has made himself/herself a partner by paying a subscription fee as will be determined by the NEC.
”Bona fide member” means and includes only those persons who have duly paid the non-refundable subscription fee.
“Constituency” shall mean a unit of representation in the Association, such as geographical regions in the country which shall be demarcated by the AGM.
“Complimentary Member” refers to a member who co-exists with the members of ITAU but has no right of vote as a bona fide member.
”External Auditor” refers to any person with the recognized accounting qualifications who is not a member of the NEC.
“Extraordinary Meeting” refers to an impromptu meeting.
“ICT” stands for Information and Communication Technology.
“ITAU” stands for ICT Teachers’ Association of Uganda.
“Policies” refers to the Established Laws, and guidelines.
“SACCO” refers to Savings and Credit Cooperative.
“Special Meeting” refers to a meeting where two and a third (2/3) of its majority members has not been realized.
”The Constitution” means the Constitution of ITAU unless otherwise stated.
”The NEC” or National Executive Committee refers to the body comprising the elected officials of the Association and includes the representatives of the Constituencies.
“Association” shall mean ICT TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF UGANDA.
“Part-time Member” refers to a member who is legally entitled to have a right to ITAU membership during specified periods.
“RC” refers to Regional Committees.
“SIGs” refers to Special Interest groups such as People with Disabilities
“Stand-by Executive” refers to the Executive appointed by the NEC in the event of the dissolution of the NEC or by means of vote-of-no confidence.
Words denoting masculine gender such as his, him, etc. also refer to feminine gender.

ARTICLE I

1.1 NAME

The name of the Association shall be the “ICT TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF UGANDA” (here-in after known and referred to as ITAU).

1.2 REGISTERED OFFICE OF ITAU

ITAU will have a head office, which shall be established in a location decided upon by the NEC in consultation with other stakeholders.

1.3 MISSION

To be the lead engine in uniting, organizing and empowering teachers to share, innovate and advocate for ICT integration in education.

1.4 VISION

A society in which ICT Teachers are empowered to pass on relevant skills to all learners and support other teachers to effectively use ICTs in teaching and learning.

1.5 THE MOTTO

The motto of the Association shall be “Together Against Computer illiteracy”.

ARTICLE II

2.1 OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSOCIATION

The objectives of the Association are:

To enhance unity and teamwork among the association members and the entire public;
To sensitize the public about computer literacy, digital pedagogy, and undertake initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide;
To build a community and aid the ICT Teachers community in its pursuit of teaching excellence, awareness, harmony, professionalism and inclusiveness;
To identify and make known the educational and related needs and challenges that teachers face in Ugandan schools, as far as practicable, source, mobilize and co-ordinate ways and means whereby those needs and challenges may be addressed;
To set standards for excellence and promoting professional development, create a formal space where people can network with others in their industry, find jobs or employees, learn new skills and gain certifications.
To provide a meaningful address of ICT teachers’ concerns and perspectives through the principle of democratic representation;
To foster observance of shared goals and ideals of ICT Teachers in Uganda;
To gather, disseminate and mutually exchange information about members and their activities in the fields of education, research, innovation, strategic and development plans and services;
To contribute toward the promotion of ICT education in Uganda, by organizing workshops, seminars, events and projects in order to assist its members to improve professionally and teach more effectively;
To ensure that the association’s activities achieve their maximum effectiveness;
To raise funds through lawful means for purposes of achieving the aims and objectives of the association;
To link the ICT Teachers community to different career and other opportunities;
To establish and run a SACCO to help the members access financial services which can simplify the acquisition of assets necessary for their work such as computers and for personal development;
To leverage utilization of ICT for continuous education in case of disruption (emergency, disaster, pandemics) in the education sector.
To develop and maintain a website or other publications in which ICT Teachers can express their views, thoughts and creative talents;
To uphold this constitution and undertake any other activity which does not conflict with the constitution or any other law or regulation in force or as laid down in the laws of Uganda and which are beneficial to the members;
Such other objectives as shall be relevant to the furtherance of the aims of the association.

ARTICLE III

3.1 MEMBERSHIP

There shall be 5 categories of membership, ordinary membership, bona-fide membership, institutional membership, affiliate membership and honorary membership.
To become a member of ITAU, one needs to follow the steps below:
Fill in the membership application form with all the information required.
Submit the form and all the required documents to the ITAU Secretariat. The delivery can be done physically to the office or online.

3.2 RIGHTS OF MEMBERS

(i) Ordinary Membership

A teacher of ICT or ICT related course in any school/institution in Uganda qualifies to be an ordinary member of ITAU. Ordinary members shall;
Be connected to join the general network of ICT Teachers
Be free to share information appropriate information on the various ITAU fora / platforms they are part of; provided that the information they share does not contradict the policies of ITAU.
Attend training courses, seminars and workshops that may be arranged by the ITAU;

(ii) Bona fide Membership

An ordinary member can become a full bona fide member of ITAU after paying an annual subscription fee set by the ITAU executive for a given year. NB: The funds collected from members subscription is the members free-will support to ITAU towards Association programs and full for this fund is accountability to be included in accounts during the ITAU AGM.

Bona fide members shall

Have the right to vote in the Associations’ elections; to elect or be elected to any of ITAU leadership position unless otherwise provided in the constitution;
Having higher rights as enshrined in the constitution e.g to propose amendments, move a vote of no confidence as per section 5.5 of the constitution, hold the executives to account for any ITAU programs / activities etc.
Getting publishing rights on the ITAU website to be able to write articles and also sell products through the ITAU shop.
Being added to a special bona fides mailing list to get access to prime ITAU resources and opportunities like jobs, scholarships and special considerations to facilitate workshops and trainings.
Can get letter of recommendation from ITAU when needed for career advancement.
Special consideration / free entry to some ITAU professional development programs/ activities such as workshops, meetups which will be organized from time to time in different regions across the country.
Special recognition and listing as a bona fide member in the ITAU records / website.
Have access to the bona-fides welfare fund as guided by the welfare policy which will be instituted by the executive committee.
(iii) Institutional Membership

This membership classification provides the opportunity for a school, company or organization to support the activities of ITAU and at the same time benefit from a variety of products/ services of the association as well as recognition. The dues rate for Institutional membership will be set by the ITAU Executive Committee from time to time. Some of the benefits that come with ITAU Institutional Membership include:

Designation of individuals to get access to special ITAU publications and services
Complimentary registration slots at the ITAU Capacity Development Workshop or AGM.
50% off exhibit table space at the ITAU Conferences.
Non-ITAU members affiliated with the Institutional Member company/organization may attend ITAU workshops at member rates
Complimentary placement of organization’s promotional material on ITAU publications, website and Institutional Membership recognition in the Association’s Membership Directory

(iv) Affiliate Membership

Any other person desiring to be a member of the Association and who in the opinion of the NEC does not fall under any of the categories specified in this section (i), (ii) above shall be granted affiliate membership upon approval by the Committee upon payment of an annual subscription set by the committee.

(v) Honorary Membership:

Honorary members are distinguished or prominent persons who have contributed greatly towards ITAU’s objectives, mission and vision, or whose membership could add prestige to or advance the interests of the Association.

The NEC may appoint a honorary member to the role of “Honorary Patron” of ITAU for a stipulated period. An Honorary Patron shall be someone who, due to his/her public achievement, exemplification of outstanding leadership, and stature in society, can help ITAU achieve its mission by enhancing the institute’s credibility, and by modeling different ideals of leadership. An Honorary Patron will not be required pay any fees or bear any liabilities on behalf of ITAU, will have no voting rights, will not be an executive member or have any direct authority over the association, but may play advisory role.

3.3 CESSATION OF MEMBERSHIP

(ii) A member may Cease to be a member in the following circumstances:

When a member resigns from ITAU by notice submitted to the Secretary General. The resignation shall take effect from the date of receipt of the notification by the Secretary General.
Becoming of unsound mind
The Executive Committee may by resolution dismiss a member
Ceases to be a teacher occasioned by death, retirement or switch of occupation or otherwise.

3.4 OBLIGATIONS OF MEMBERS

(i) Every member of ITAU shall be required to respect all the organs of the Association established in the Constitution and their decisions.
(ii) Every member shall abide and bind oneself by the letter and spirit of this Constitution.
(iii) Every member shall have a duty to protect, promote, and preserve the integrity of this Constitution.

3.5 ALLEGIANCE TO THE CONSTITUTION

By the willful act of taking up membership of the Association every member covenants and shall be deemed to have covenanted with the Organization and its other members present and future to honour and abide by this Constitution of ITAU as adopted.

ARTICLE IV

4.1 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE OF THE ASSOCIATION

The organs of ITAU shall be as follows:

The General Assembly / Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The National Executive Committee (NEC).
The Regional Committees (RCs).
Secretariat
The Board of Directors (BOD)

4.2 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

(i) There shall be an Annual General Meeting of the ITAU, which shall be held not later than 30^th November of each year.

(ii) Notice in writing of such Annual General Meeting, accompanied by the agenda for the meeting shall be sent to all members not less than 30 days before the date of the meeting.

(iii) The Annual General meeting will be deemed to be constituted when at least a half of the Bona fide members are present.

(iv) The agenda of the Annual General Meeting shall be to-

Confirm the minutes of the previous annual general meeting;
Receive the report of the Executive Committee on the activities of the Association;
Consider the accounts submitted by the Treasurer;
Receive the reports of the Chairpersons of any ITAU Committees;
Conduct Elections for the office bearers on the Executive Committees for the subsequent year;
Be the supreme decision-making body of the organization on matters within its mandate;
Approve policies and programs for the coming year.
Any other business as may be brought suggested by the General Secretary.

4.3 NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (NEC)

(i) There shall be a National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Association.

(ii) The NEC shall be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the

(iii) The NEC shall comprise of elected officers including:

National Chairperson
National Vice Chairperson
National Secretary General
National Treasurer
National Projects Secretary
National Publicity Secretary
Special Interest Groups Secretary
Regional Committee Chairpersons
National Coordinator

4.2.1 Duties of the National Executive Committee

The Executive shall:

Be responsible for upholding the Constitution of the Association;
Develop workplan, and coordinate the activities of the organization;
Hire qualified staff to run the Secretariat and oversee the day-to-day operations of the Secretariat;
Preside over the functions for the promotion of the aims and objectives of ITAU
Represent the Association in fora where the Association needs to be represented;
Facilitate the actualization of the objectives of the Association;
Determine the specific policies of the Association;
Approve the programs and budget of the Association;
Establish special committees to carry out the functions of the Association as needed from time to time.
Work in liaison with the other organs of the organization and the Honorary Patron

4.2.2 Co-option of Members

The NEC shall co-opt an individual from among the ITAU Bona fide members to replace a member of the NEC who would have resigned, suspended from office, deceased, or ceased to be a member on disciplinary grounds. Such co-option shall be done by members of the NEC and the decision shall require a two-thirds (2/3) majority of all members of the NEC.

4.2.3 Meetings of the National Executive Committee

(i) The NEC shall conduct a physical or virtual meeting at least twice in a year in ordinary session at a date and place to be determined by it.

(ii) The Chairperson may convene an extraordinary session in case of an urgent need.

(iii) The quorum required for a meeting is at least 50 percent of the members, including the Chairperson.

(iv) Deliberations of the NEC shall be open to all members present or their representatives and decisions shall be by consensus. Provided that where there is divergence of opinion, the decision shall be taken by vote of a simple majority of members present and voting except where otherwise provided for in this Constitution. The Chairperson shall have a casting vote in the event of a tie.

(v) The NEC shall determine its own rules of procedure for meetings. Where provision is not made in the rules of procedure, the Chairperson or other person presiding at the meeting shall take a decision, which shall be binding on those present at the meeting unless the matter is otherwise provided for in the rules of procedure.

(vi) The NEC meeting shall be chaired by the National Chairperson of the Association. In the absence of the Chairperson and the Vice, members present shall appoint among themselves a Chairperson to preside over the meeting.

4.4 THE REGIONAL COMMITTEES

4.4.1 Establishment of the Regional Committees

(i) ITAU shall have Regional Committees for each of the four main regions of Uganda (Central, Eastern, Northern and Western Uganda). The National Executive Committee will organize workshops in each region, and it is during these regional workshops that the regional committee members will be voted. Each of the regions will have a regional chairperson, vice chairperson and sub-regional mobilisers as outlined below:

EASTERN REGION

Regional Chairperson
Regional Vice Chairperson
Sub-regional Mobilisers for:
- Busoga Sub-region (Bugiri, Buyende, Iganga, Kaliro, Kamuli, Luuka, Jinja, Namayingo, Namutumba, Mayuge)
- Bukedi Sub-region (Pallisa, Kibuku, Budaka, Butaleja, Busia, Tororo)
- Teso Sub-region (Amuria, Bukedea, Kaberamaido, Katakwi, Kumi, , Ngora, Serere, Soroti)
- Bugisu Sub-region (Bududa, Bulambuli, Manafwa, Mbale, Sironko)
- Sebei Sub-region (Bukwa, Kapchorwa, Kween)

WESTERN REGION

Regional Chairperson
Regional Vice Chairperson
Sub-regional Mobilisers for
- Bunyoro Sub-region (Buliisa, Hoima, Kiryandongo, Masindi, Kibaale)
- Ankole Sub-region (Buhweju, Bushenyi, Ibanda, Isingiro, Kasese, Kiruhura, Kyegegwa, Mbarara, Mitooma, Ntungamo, Rubirizi, Sheema)
- Tooro Sub-region (Ntoroko, Bundibugyo Kabarole, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge)
- Kigezi Sub-region (Kisoro, Kabale, Kanungu, Rukungiri)

NORTHERN REGION

Regional Chairperson
Regional Vice Chairperson
Sub-regional Mobilisers for:
- Acholi Sub-region (Nwoya, Pader, Agago, Amuru, Gulu, Kitgum, Lamwo)
- Lango Sub-region (Alebtong, Amolatar, Apac, Dokolo, Kole, Lira, Oyam, Otuke)
- West Nile Sub-region (Adjumani, Arua, Koboko, Maracha, Moyo, Nebbi, Yumbe, Zombo)
- Karamoja Sub-region (Abim, Amudat, Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto, Nakapiripirit, Napak)

CENTRAL REGION

Regional Chairperson
Regional Vice Chairperson
Sub-regional Mobilisers for:
- Greater Kampala Sub-region (Kampala, Wakiso, Mpigi, Gomba, Butambala)
- Greater Mukono Sub-region (Mukono, Kayunga, Buikwe, Buvuma)
- Luweero Triangle Sub-region (Luweero, Nakasongola, Nakaseke, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Mubende, Mityana)
- Greater Masaka Sub-region (Masaka, Rakai, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Ssembabule, Bukomansimbi, Kalungu, Kalangala)

4.4.2 Duties of the Regional Committees

The RCs shall:

Be ambassadors of ITAU in the their areas, during workshops, conferences, at marking centers and other for a where ICT Teachers physically meet.
Carry out grass root mobilization of new members to register with the association;
Add new contacts to the ITAU database, social media platforms and website.
Implement proposals and resolutions made by the NEC.
Organize regional meetings and seminars for ICT teachers and students.
Set regional joint mock exams for ICT and Computer Studies.
Carry out any other activities or projects which are in line with the objectives of ITAU.

4.5 THE SECRETARIAT

There shall be a secretariat constituting of employees hired by the NEC to run day-to-day operations and activities of the organization.

The Secretariat will be headed by an Administrative Manager who will be responsible for providing overall leadership and management, managing the Secretariat team and for supporting growth and development of the team.
The Administrative Manager shall prepare an operating budget for the organization and table it before the Executive Committee for consideration and approval.
S/he will Prepare quarterly activity reports, which shall be presented to the Executive Committee
S/he will Be a signatory to the Audit reports and the Operations Bank Account of the Organization together with the Chairperson and Treasurer
S/he will Control the assets of the organization and keep proper records of the assets and their development and use

S/he will drive relationships with all stakeholders, and partner organizations, and will be expected to strengthen the Organisation’s Partnership through the incubation, evaluation and implementation of new ideas.
S/he will be responsible for effectively delivering high quality services to the participating organizations per the agreed objectives.
S/he will work closely with the entire Executive to develop the strategic goals and objectives of the Association.
The chairperson / NEC shall appoint and assign duties to the other secretariat staff from time to time as may be needed.

4.6 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

There shall be a Board of Directors, constituting of founding directors of ICT TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION UGANDA LIMITED, which is a nonprofit / company limited by guarantee Registered with Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) on 14th Feb 2020 under Reg No. 80020002392779.
Other directors can be co-opted in line with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2012 of the Republic of Uganda.
The purpose of a Board of Directors, ‘the board’, shall include being custodians of the legal framework of the organization / company, developing organization’s policies in liaison with other organs of the organization, ensuring that operations abide by relevant laws and regulations and making sure that any decisions or actions align with the interests of all stakeholders.
The Board of Directors will have a committee member in charge of legal affairs, can contract a legal person or outsource a law firm to work as a legal advisor to handle matters when need arises.
The board of directors shall be responsible for instituting an independent electoral committee led by a returning officer and other electoral officials as needed to conduct elections and byelections in the organization from time to time.
The Board of Directors shall represent and protect the interests of shareholders, or the individuals, companies or institutions who are part and parcel of the association.
The Board of Directors shall be obliged to mobilize for investment and support the Executive on any issues a company or organization may face.

4.6 OFFICE BEARERS OF THE ASSOCIATION AND DUTIES

4.6.1 National Chairperson

The Association shall have a National Chairperson who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications:

Must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU
Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 5 years as evidenced in his/her CV and recommendation letter from current / recent school/institution of work.
Must have previously served ITAU as an executive or facilitator in any of the ITAU programs / projects.
Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 5 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects).

The following are the responsibilities of the National Chairperson:

Be the executive head of the association.
Preside over the NEC Ordinary and Extra-ordinary Meetings;
Be the spokesperson of the Association;
Preside over all general meetings of the association;
Have a casting vote in all meetings of the Association;
Be ex-officio member of all Committees;
Be the custodian of the association stamp and seal.
Be a co-signatory in all negotiable transactions of the Association;
Be responsible for drawing and execution of the work plans of the association in consultation with the NEC.
Have to the authority to contract any officials / secretariat staff to perform administrative or technical duties for ITAU when need arises, with the approval of the NEC.
Spearhead the establishment and operation of the ITAU SACCO in conjunction with the NEC.
Be responsible for ensuring the legality of ITAU as per the laws of Uganda, and seek / outsource legal guidance where need arises with the approval of the NEC.
Such other duties as may be bestowed upon him by the AGM or NEC, provided that it does not violate this Constitution, or any other written laws.

4.6.2 National Vice-Chairperson

The Association shall have a National Vice Chairperson who shall be strategically appointed by the National Chairperson Elect, in consideration of one or more of several factors / situations like:

Need for gender balancing especially if the rest of the elected NEC members are predominantly one gender
Need for regional balancing, for instance of chairperson is from upcountry and needs a deputy close to the secretariat for easy supervision
Need for Unity or Strengthening of the association for instance choosing a deputy from one of the close contenders whose inclusion on the NEC is desirable.
Any other factor at the discretion of the National Chairperson entrusted to be the executive head of the association.

Responsibilities of the National Vice Chairperson:

To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Exercise the duties of the Chairperson in his/her absence from office or in his/her inability to act;
Act as the official internal affairs officer of the Association including internal crisis, dispute and security matters;
Organize and chair the disciplinary committee meetings when need arises;
Perform any other duties bestowed upon him by the NEC provided that, these duties do not violate the spirit of this Constitution or are inconsistent with the respective duties provided for other members of the NEC .

4.6.3 National Secretary General

The Association shall have a National Secretary General who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications:

•Must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU

•Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 2 years as evidenced in his/her CV.

•Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 3 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects) since 2018.

Responsibilities of the National Secretary General:

To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Be the Secretary to the NEC, Annual General Meeting, Ordinary, Extra-ordinary Meetings.
Keep a roll of attendance of the meetings.
Have the power to punish late coming, absenteeism, misconduct and/or use of improper language during meetings in accordance with the Constitution.
Oversee and maintain all minutes, correspondences, records and property of the Association;
Keep files, registers and minutes of the Association;
In consultation with the Chairperson and members of the Executive in general, draw the agenda for the association meetings and to issue notices of such meetings.
Maintain correspondence with other Secretaries and other stakeholders;
Make available to the Chairperson all documents and reports relating to matters to be discussed at the Annual General Meeting.
Perform any other duties bestowed upon her/him by NEC provided they do not violate the spirit of this Constitution or create a chance of collision of responsibilities of other members of the NEC.

4.6.4 National Treasurer

The Association shall have a National Treasurer who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications

•Must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU

•Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 2 years as evidenced in his/her CV.

•Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 3 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects) since 2018.

•Should be a teacher with stable income, preferably on government payroll

•Should be an entrepreneur with good financial standing

•Should be knowledgeable about principles and practices of accounting

Responsibilities-

To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Oversee the day-to-day work of the accountant at the ITAU secretariat and work closely with accountant to ensure proper management of the finances of the organization.
Receive and bank all monies paid to the Association and be responsible for the Association’s funds;
Accept subscriptions and donations in the name of the Association with the approval of the NEC;
Shall be a co-signatory to the organizations bank account from the funds as authorized by the NEC;
Draw up a budget, and maintain an up-to-date statement of accounts and reports indicating income and expenditure for each year for approval, and for publication at the AGM;
Shall ensure that all books of accounts are made available to any of the members of the NEC, provided that written notice has been given seven (7) days in advance, for inspection purposes;
Keep records of membership dues and other financial records;
Be the custodian of the association’s property.

4.6.5 National Projects Secretary

The Association shall have a National Projects Secretary who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications:

He must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU
Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 2 years as evidenced in his/her CV.
Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 3 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects) since 2018.
Should be conversant with project proposal writing and implementation

The Projects and Events Secretary shall:

To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Mobilize members of the association for any project ideas;
Table ideas regarding new projects that ITAU can take on for consideration during association meetings.
Be in charge of project proposal writing and submission to potential partners
Liaise with the NEC and secretariat staff for successful projects implementation
Oversee ongoing projects and get periodic project reports written and shared with appropriate stakeholders.
Perform any other duties that he /she may be assigned by the NEC.

4.6.6 National Publicity Secretary

The Association shall have a National Publicity Secretary who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications:

He must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU
Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 2 years as evidenced in his/her CV.
Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 3 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects) since 2018.
Must be conversant with managing ITAU’s WordPress powered website, social media, mailing lists, bulk SMS and / or other publicity platforms for the association

Responsibilities:

To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Spearhead the creation of official ITAU promotional material for dissemination to the members, such as banners, posters, photography and video coverage, and other advertising material for publicizing all activities of the association, with the help of the NEC, regional committee members and secretariat staff.
Be an administrator of the ITAU website and social media platforms, such as Facebook Pages and Groups, Twitter Accounts, WhatsApp groups, Telegram groups, Google Classroom, YouTube Channel, mailing lists, etc.
Lead the circulation of relevant information to the members of the Association through notices and announcements and publicize the activities of the association in all forms and manifestations including on the ICT Teachers website, email and social and / or print magazines / media.
Be responsible for spearheading the creation of the Annual ITAU computer literacy magazines.
Be responsible for branding the association and work with the Projects and Events secretary on branding projects such as the ITAU t-shirts.
Be a spokesperson of the association as guided by the chairperson.
Perform any other duties that he /she may be assigned by the NEC.

4.6.7 Special Interest Groups Secretary

The Association shall have a Special Interest Groups (SIGs) Secretary who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications:

Must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU
Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 1 year as evidenced in his/her CV.
Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 2 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects) since 2018.
Must be belonging to at least one of the Special Interest Groups (SIGs) such as people with disabilities, people with albinism, disadvantaged /hard to reach communities, refugees, women, ICT teachers and trainees in tertiary institutions, primary schools, etc in the programs, leadership and general agenda of the association

The SIGs Secretary shall:

To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Spearhead the awareness drive and inclusion of SIGs.
To carry out continuous research about various assistive technologies that can be used to empower and support the members from SIGs, and design programs for consideration by the NEC.
Design activities for observance of special days for the various special interest groups, e.g Women’s Day, and laisse with the publicity secretary and the NEC to disseminate sensitization information about the plight and available ICT solutions to challenges of SIGs.
Perform any other duties that he /she may be assigned by the Chairperson or the NEC.

4.6.8 Regional Chairpersons

The Association shall have Regional Chairpersons for Central, Eastern, Western and Northern regions, who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications:

•Must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU

•Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 5 years as evidenced in his/her CV and recommendation letter from current / recent school/institution of work.

•Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 3 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects) since 2018.

Responsibilities

Head and chair the meetings of their respective regional committees.
Represent their constituencies / regional committees on the NEC;
As may be needed, liaise with the NEC to establish regional offices for the association and appoint staff / officials to carry out association work at the regional offices.
To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Present the views from their respective constituencies.
Guide the NEC in planning and implementing of the association programs in the various regions and sub-regions.
Provide leadership to the sub regional mobilisers to mobilize more members who are not yet aware of the Association in their respective regions, in the field, marking centers, seminars, and other fora.
Work together / with assistance of the regional vice chairperson whose duty is to deputize the regional chairperson and carry out all roles of the chairperson in his/her absentia.
Perform any other duties that he /she may be assigned by the Chairperson or the NEC.

4.6.9 National Coordinator

The Association shall have a National Coordinator who shall be elected by all bona fide members of ITAU.

Qualifications:

Must be a fully paid-up bona fide member of ITAU
Must have ICT teaching experience of at least 5 years as evidenced in his/her CV.
Must have previously served ITAU as an executive or facilitator in any of the ITAU programs / projects.
Must have either attended, organized or facilitated at least 5 ITAU events / programs (workshops / trainings / general meetings / projects).
Should have a flexible schedule, ready to traverse the entire Country in coordination of the association’s activities Nationwide

The National Coordinator shall:

To attend all executive meetings and freely give input on matters under discussion.
Coordinate services required during sickness or bereavement of any bonafide member(s) of the Association;
Spearhead the welfare and social support to the members of the association.
To mediate in case there are misunderstandings among the members of the association.
Strive to ensure that all the NEC members and Committees, have cordial relations among them, and that their goals articulate the policies of the Association;
Work in liaison with all NEC members and be ready to give support to or stand-in for any member of the NEC in the execution of his/her duties where need arises, with the approval of the member or the chairperson.
Perform any other duties that he /she may be assigned by the Chairperson or the NEC.

ARTICLE V

5.1 GENERAL ELECTIONS

There shall be annual general elections at the end of every three years.
The elections shall be presided over by the independent electoral committee instituted by the board.
All bonafide members shall be eligible to vote and be voted for.
Voting shall be on the basis of one person one vote and may be by secret ballot, by show of hands, online or hybrid as planed and communicated by the independent electoral committee.
Whenever there is a tie at the counting of votes for any position, re-elections shall be held for the same post for the best two of the contesting candidates.
Nominations can be called before the day of the AGM, but a candidate / nominee shall be required to attend the AGM physically and be seconded by at least one person.
Handover and swearing in ceremonies will be conducted after declaration of results during the AGM, and taking of the Auth as indicated in the appendix hereof.
The Handover will be presided over by the independent electoral committee, the board, honorary patron and guest of honor.

5.2 GROUNDS FOR DISQUALIFICATION

Candidates shall be disqualified if:

There is evidence of sponsorship by any external person/organization who is not a member of ITAU.
After nomination, if the candidate incites other members to using violence, threats or ridicule.
He / she breaches any provision of this constitution or laws of Uganda.

5.3 BY-ELECTION

In the event that a position falls / remains vacant for any reason, the vacancy will be announced by the NEC stating the reason for the vacancy. This is to be followed by a NEC meeting to discuss the vacancy.
A By-election will be conducted by the independent electoral committee within 2 months of a vacancy due to any relevant reason, any time but at most within three (3) months.

5.4 VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE

(i) In the event of misconduct of an official, a vote of no confidence shall be proposed by any bonafide member of ITAU and will be subject to confirmation by two-thirds (2/3) of the Committee.

The said motion must be served to the official(s) affected.
The affected official(s) shall have the right to defend against such removal during the next executive meeting.
The all-NEC members will have the entitlement to vote on the motion.

5.5 NEC DISSOLUTION

The NEC shall be dissolved automatically as soon as nominations for the next NEC are announced. However, the Executive members will continue to perform their day-to-day activities in a caretaker capacity.
New elections shall be held as provided for in this Constitution.

5.6 RESIGNATION AND SUSPENSION FROM OFFICE

Any official of the Association shall hand in his/her written notice of intent to resign, one week before resignation to the National Secretary General. Such a letter/email shall also be copied to all NEC members. At the expiry of the seven (7) days’ notice, she/he shall also publish a notice to this effect.

(ii) Replacement of such an official will depend on the time of resignation. The official will be replaced if a period of more than three (3) month left to the next general elections are to be held as provided for in the Constitution, otherwise no by-elections shall held. The position(s) will remain vacant if a period of less than three (3) month is left.

(iii) The Secretary General can resign by submitting a written notice to the Chairperson. The same procedure as for the other officials will be followed.

Any official of the Association can be suspended by the NEC and shall receive such notice of suspension as outlined above and the same procedure as for resignation shall apply.

Such suspension shall be for a period of not more than three months.

ARTICLE VI

6.1 ASSOCIATION FUNDS

(a) The funds of the Association shall comprise of-

Subscriptions from members;
Profits from workshops, economic activities and projects done by the association;
Donations, gifts and grants;
Such monies or assets as may accrue to or vest in the Association in the course of the exercise of its powers or the performance of its functions under this Constitution; and
All monies from any other sources provided for or lent to the Association.

(b) The funds of the Association may be used for the following purposes-

(i) Recurrent expenses;

(ii) Capital development;

(iii) Operations, allowances, wages, and maintenance costs; and

(iv) To facilitate furtherance of the Associations objectives.

Withdrawal from the funds shall be made only against the joint signatures of all the three signatories.
Administration of such funds shall be carried out by the National Treasurer in consultation with the NEC.
All financial records shall be kept by the secretariat under the supervision of the National Treasurer.
The maximum expenditure from the fund for each year shall not exceed the total revenue for that year.
Any funds raised from the associations’ activities organized by the NEC shall be reverted to the ITAU account, and appropriate entries must be made in the ITAU books of accounts, to indicate such revenue.
The National Treasurer shall submit an up-to-date statement of accounts and reports, indicating income and expenditure for each year for approval and publication at the AGM.
The National Treasurer shall ensure that all books of accounts are made available to any of the members of the NEC or the board, provided that a written notice has been given seven (7) days in advance for inspection purposes.
The organizations financial reports, statements and operations shall be audited annually by appointed external auditors. The audited accounts shall be presented to the NEC and the board for approval, given to the stakeholders and presented in the AGM. The Audit shall be done not later than two months after the closure of the year.
The National Treasurer shall ensure that all books of accounts are made available for inspection by the appointed External auditors’ at all reasonable times, provided that a written notice has been given seven (7) days in advance.

6.2 REMUNERATION AND ALLOWANCES OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS

(i) The payments of allowances of the Association officials and staff shall be determined by a resolution of the NEC and reviewed by the Board of Directors which will be communicated through a notice to all the members of ITAU.

(ii) All allowances payable will be properly recorded in the books of accounts and reviewed from time to time subject to availability of funds.

ARTICLE VII

7.1 AMENDMENTS

The proposed amendment should also be submitted in writing to the general secretary who shall submit such amendments to The NEC for debate to be later presented at a General Meeting.
Amendment shall only be adopted if such a proposal is supported by 60% of the total ITAU members. This amendment shall invalidate any provision inconsistent with it.

ARTICLE VIII

8.1 INTERPRETATION

That this Constitution shall be read and construed in accordance and conformity with the Constitution of Republic of Uganda 1995 and the existing Laws of Uganda

APPENDIX

All elected officials shall individually take on oath, holding the holy book of their faith, raising their right hand saying:

I, ………………………………………………… (name) swear that I shall always serve the ICT Teachers’ Association of Uganda as the ………………………………………………. (position) with all honesty and to the best of my ability abiding fully to the Constitution, so help me God.

Constitution

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