Official Policy
Code of Conduct
Establishing standards of behavior expected of all members of the University community to ensure a safe, respectful, ethical, and academically focused environment.
Purpose and Principles
The Code of Conduct of Kestora University establishes standards of behavior expected of all members of the University community. It aims to ensure a safe, respectful, ethical, and academically focused environment that supports learning and institutional integrity.
This Code applies to conduct occurring:
- On campus or institutional premises
- Online and within digital systems
- During academic, administrative, or University-related activities
- In any context where a student represents Kestora University
Scope of Application
This Code of Conduct applies to:
- All enrolled students (Bachelor's and Master's)
- Students on leave of absence
- Applicants who have accepted an offer of admission
- Participants in University-sponsored activities
The University reserves the right to take action when conduct adversely affects the institution or its community.
Core Values
Members of the Kestora University community are expected to uphold the following values:
- Integrity and honesty
- Respect for others
- Responsibility and accountability
- Academic professionalism
- Compliance with institutional regulations
Expected Standards of Behavior
Students are expected to:
- Act with honesty and integrity in all academic and non-academic activities
- Treat fellow students, staff, faculty, and visitors with respect
- Follow all academic, administrative, and financial regulations
- Use institutional systems and resources responsibly
- Comply with applicable laws and regulations
Prohibited Conduct
The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.
5.1 Academic Misconduct
Includes but is not limited to:
- Plagiarism
- Cheating during assessments
- Fabrication or falsification of academic data
- Unauthorized collaboration
- Submission of work not authored by the student
5.2 Disruptive or Abusive Behavior
Includes:
- Harassment, intimidation, or threats
- Discrimination or hate speech
- Verbal or written abuse
- Behavior that disrupts teaching, learning, or administrative processes
5.3 Misuse of Institutional Resources
Includes:
- Unauthorized access to systems or data
- Sharing login credentials
- Tampering with IT systems
- Misuse of email, platforms, or networks
5.4 Dishonesty and Misrepresentation
Includes:
- Providing false information to the University
- Submitting fraudulent documents
- Impersonation
- Misrepresentation of affiliation with Kestora University
5.5 Safety and Security Violations
Includes:
- Actions that endanger the safety of others
- Damage to property
- Failure to comply with safety instructions
- Unauthorized access to restricted areas
5.6 Financial Misconduct
Includes:
- Non-payment of fees after enrollment
- Fraudulent payment activity
- Abuse of refund or financial aid processes
Online and Digital Conduct
Students must adhere to this Code when using:
- Learning Management Systems (LMS)
- Student portals
- Institutional email
- Online classrooms and forums
Prohibited digital behavior includes:
- Cyber harassment
- Academic dishonesty in online assessments
- Unauthorized recording or distribution of content
- Inappropriate or offensive communications
Reporting Misconduct
7.1 Reporting Channels
Concerns or violations may be reported to:
- Academic staff
- Administrative offices
- Designated student services or compliance units
Reports should be made in good faith.
7.2 False or Malicious Reports
Knowingly submitting false or malicious reports may itself result in disciplinary action.
Disciplinary Process
8.1 Investigation
- Alleged violations are reviewed objectively
- The student may be required to provide a response
- Relevant evidence is examined
8.2 Interim Measures
Where necessary, the University may impose temporary measures, including:
- Restricted access to systems
- Suspension pending investigation
8.3 Decision
Decisions are based on:
- Severity of the violation
- Previous conduct
- Impact on the community
Outcomes are communicated formally.
Disciplinary Sanctions
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
- Written warning
- Academic penalty
- Probation
- Suspension
- Dismissal from the University
Sanctions are proportionate and documented.
Appeals
Students have the right to appeal certain disciplinary decisions.
- Appeals must be submitted in writing
- Appeals must be based on procedural error, new evidence, or disproportional sanction
- Appeal decisions are final
Confidentiality and Records
- Disciplinary records are maintained securely
- Access is limited to authorized personnel
- Records are retained in accordance with institutional policies
Non-Retaliation
Kestora University prohibits retaliation against individuals who:
- Report misconduct in good faith
- Participate in disciplinary processes
Retaliation is a serious violation of this Code.
Responsibility to Know the Code
Students are responsible for:
- Reading and understanding this Code of Conduct
- Seeking clarification where needed
- Complying with all applicable regulations
Ignorance of the Code does not exempt a student from responsibility.
Amendments and Review
Kestora University reserves the right to:
- Amend this Code of Conduct
- Update disciplinary procedures
The most current version is published on the official website.
Effective Date
This Code of Conduct takes effect upon publication and applies to all students enrolled thereafter.