Group - One - Legal and Ethics Cat 2
Group - One - Legal and Ethics Cat 2
MEMBERS
The Computer Society of Kenya (CSK) is a professional association that brings together
individuals and organizations in the field of information technology (IT) across Kenya.
Established in 1987, Computer Society of Kenya aims to promote the development and
application of IT in various sectors of society, fostering collaboration among professionals,
policymakers, and other stakeholders. The society offers a platform for networking,
professional development, and advocacy, while also contributing to the growth of the IT
industry in Kenya. Through its activities, CSK plays a key role in shaping the country's
technological landscape, driving innovation, and promoting best practices in the field of
computing.
Membership requirements
Membership is open to individuals who are professionally involved in the field of information
technology, including those who are practitioners, educators, students, or researchers in
computing and related disciplines. The society offers different categories of membership, such
as individual membership, corporate membership, and student membership, each with its
specific requirements. For individual membership, applicants typically need to possess
relevant academic qualifications, such as a degree or diploma in computer science,
information technology, or a related field. Professional experience in the IT industry or
academia may also be considered, particularly for higher membership grades like Associate
or Full membership. Corporate membership is available to organizations involved in IT-related
activities, while student membership is open to those currently enrolled in relevant academic
programs. Applicants are usually required to complete an application form, pay the applicable
membership fees, and provide supporting documentation such as academic certificates or
proof of professional experience. Membership fees vary depending on the category and
membership level, and members are expected to adhere to the society's code of ethics and
engage in its activities, which include attending conferences, workshops, and professional
development programs.
Eligibility criteria
Individual Membership Eligibility Criteria
1. Academic Qualifications:
2. Professional Experience
Applicants for Full Membership are typically required to have a minimum of three years of
professional experience in the IT industry. This experience should be in roles such as
software development, systems analysis, IT management, cyber security, networking, etc.
For Associate Membership, applicants with less than three years of professional experience
in IT may be considered, provided they meet the academic requirements.
Professional experience should be relevant and demonstrate the applicant's contribution to
the field of computing Academic or Professional Standing - Applicants must demonstrate a
solid academic or professional standing in the IT field. This can be proven through academic
transcripts or certificates from recognized institutions, letters of recommendation or
references from employers or professors who can vouch for the applicant’s competence and
experience or recognition of accomplishments or leadership roles in IT-related projects or
organizations, which may help to secure higher grades of membership.
3) Application Process
All applicants must fill out the official membership application form, which includes personal
details, academic qualifications, professional experience, and areas of expertise.
Payment of Fees - The applicant must submit the appropriate membership fees, which vary
based on the membership grade (Full, Associate) and the duration of the membership.
All individual members must agree to uphold the CSK’s code of ethics. This code emphasizes
professional integrity and ethical conduct in all aspects of IT practice, responsibility to
contribute positively to the development of the IT profession and adherence to industry best
practices, standards, and guidelines.
Members are expected to keep up with technological advancements and contribute to the
professional community by sharing knowledge and skills.
Associate Membership - For individuals who are early in their careers or those with limited
professional experience but hold relevant academic qualifications in IT.
Corporate Membership
The applying organization must submit relevant business documents, including proof of
registration and a description of its IT-related activities or contributions to the field.
The renewal process for membership typically involves the following steps.
1. Notification of Renewal
CSK sends reminders to current members when their membership is nearing expiration,
usually a few weeks or months before the renewal date.
The notification may be sent via email, SMS, or through the member portal, providing
members with instructions on how to renew their membership.
2. Payment of Renewal Fees
Members are required to pay the renewal fee to continue their membership. The fee structure
may vary based on the membership category for example Individual, Corporate, or Student
and the grade of membership for example Full or Associate. Payment can usually be made
through various methods such as bank transfers, online payment platforms, or directly
through the CSK membership portal.
In some cases, members may need to submit a renewal form, which may be available on the
CSK website or the member portal. This form could ask for updated personal details,
professional qualifications, or employment status.
The renewal form helps ensure that CSK has the most current information about its members,
including any changes to their contact information or professional standing.
4. Verification of Information
CSK may verify the information provided during the renewal process, particularly for members
who have changed jobs, academic statuses, or certifications. This verification involves
confirming professional experience or academic qualifications if the member has moved to a
higher grade of membership or has new certifications.
Once the renewal fee is paid and all required forms are submitted, CSK will review the
renewal application. If there are no issues, the membership will be renewed for the specified
duration.
Members may receive a confirmation email or notification once their renewal is processed,
along with an updated membership card or certificate.
6. Late Renewal
If a member misses the renewal deadline, they may still be able to renew their membership,
but this might involve a late fee or a grace period depending on the policies. Members who do
not renew within the grace period may face suspension of benefits or loss of membership
status until they renew.
7. Access to Benefits
Upon successful renewal, members can continue to enjoy the benefits of being part of the
association, including access to resources, networking opportunities, educational events, and
participation in professional development activities.
CSK advocates for the advancement and proper use of IT in Kenya. It works with government
bodies, industry players, and other stakeholders to shape policies, regulations, and standards
that support the growth of the IT sector. The society influences national technology policies,
ensuring that they foster innovation, access to technology, and ICT infrastructure
development.
It provides platforms for continuous learning which allows professionals to keep up with
technological advancements and best practices in the field. It also facilitates certifications,
helping members advance their careers by gaining expertise in various IT domains.
CSK promotes IT research and innovation within Kenya. It encourages members to contribute
to cutting-edge research, technological development, and problem-solving within the local
context. Events like innovation competitions, hackathons, and research conferences to
support and showcase new technological ideas and solutions are among those organized and
sponsored by the association.
It upholds a strict code of ethics for its members, ensuring that professionals in the IT field
adhere to high standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct. The society works
to promote industry standards, helping organizations and individuals follow best practices in
areas such as software development, cyber security, and data management.
5. Support for IT Students
It actively supports students pursuing IT-related courses by providing platforms for learning,
mentorship, and internship opportunities. It has helped students by organizing events such as
career fairs, where they can connect with potential employers and gain insight into the IT
industry.
The association collaborates with local and international organizations, including universities,
businesses, government bodies, and other professional societies, to promote the IT
profession and foster technological advancements in Kenya. These partnerships often result
in joint research initiatives, conferences, workshops, and other projects that benefit the IT
community.
The CSK association organizes annual conferences, workshops, and seminars where
professionals, policymakers, and technology enthusiasts can discuss emerging trends, share
insights, and explore opportunities in the IT sector.