Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct
The BITS Code of Conduct and Practice sets the ethical standard for ICT professionals in Botswana. All BITS members subscribe to and uphold this code at all times.
What Is the Code?
As defined in the BITS Constitution (Article 2.5), the code of conduct and practice is "a body of rules or undertakings to which members shall subscribe and uphold at all times."
The Code serves as the foundation of professional integrity within the BITS community. It defines the ethical obligations of ICT professionals — to their clients, employers, colleagues, the public, and the profession itself — and provides the basis for discipline when those obligations are breached.
Core Principles
BITS members are expected to uphold the following core professional principles:
Integrity
Act honestly and transparently in all professional dealings. Do not misrepresent qualifications, capabilities, or the nature of services provided.
Competence
Only undertake work for which you have the necessary skills and knowledge. Continuously develop your professional competence through learning and CPD.
Confidentiality
Respect the confidentiality of information entrusted to you by clients and employers. Do not disclose such information without proper authorisation.
Public Interest
Place the safety, health and wellbeing of the public above all other considerations. ICT systems and solutions must not harm individuals or society.
Respect for Others
Treat colleagues, clients and the public with dignity and respect. Do not discriminate and do not engage in harassment or conduct unbecoming of a professional.
Professional Standards
Support the advancement of the ICT profession. Uphold the reputation of BITS and the standing of ICT professionals in Botswana and beyond.
Obligations of BITS Members
By registering as a BITS member, every member commits to:
- Subscribing to and upholding the BITS Code of Conduct and Practice at all times
- Observing the rules of the Society as enshrined in the Constitution
- Conducting themselves in a manner that protects the reputation of the ICT profession
- Cooperating with disciplinary proceedings if called upon to do so
- Reporting breaches of the Code to the Executive Council where they become aware of them
Discipline
The BITS Constitution (Article 11) empowers the Council to discipline any member who contravenes the provisions of the rules of the Society or who absents themselves from consecutive meetings of the Council, standing committees, or any other committees without cause.
Membership may be terminated (Article 5) when, in the opinion of the Society, a member has breached the rules of the Society, or when the credentials under which they were registered are no longer valid.