ACIPS Values & Regulations

Purpose & Scope

This document defines the values, membership principles, and regulations for individuals wishing to become members of the Afrika Centre for Intangible Phenomena Studies (ACIPS). ACIPS promotes Afrikan-centred research, spirituality, and decolonial scholarship across the continent and the diaspora.

1. Core Values

• Ubuntu: Practising mutual care, respect, and collective responsibility.
• Afrikan Centring: Prioritising Afrikan worldviews, philosophies, and indigenous epistemologies.
• Decolonial Praxis: Dismantling colonial frameworks and advancing Afrikan self-determination.
• Respect for Ancestral Knowledge: Upholding traditional knowledge, spiritual systems, and sacred protocols.
• Reciprocity & Benefit-Sharing: Ensuring that knowledge and resources benefit their communities of origin.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical conduct in research, finances, and community engagement.
• Non-Exploitation: Preventing the misuse or commercialisation of sacred or indigenous knowledge.
• Sustainability: Protecting the environment in harmony with Afrikan cosmologies.
• Solidarity: Building unity among Afrikan peoples and their allies for decolonisation and peace.

2. Membership Principles & Eligibility

Membership is open to persons who uphold Afrikan spirituality, indigenous knowledge systems, and decolonial development. ACIPS maintains Afrikan leadership in its governance and prioritises members of Afrikan heritage for key roles.

Membership Categories

• Full Member: Individuals who demonstrate established commitment to Afrikan spirituality, indigenous knowledge, and decolonial practice. Full Members enjoy voting rights and may hold leadership positions after probation.
• Associate Member: Supporters or collaborators aligned with ACIPS values. They contribute academically or practically but may not hold governance positions.
• Patron / Donor: Individuals or organisations offering financial or material support. They may not intervene in internal spiritual or policy matters.
• Honorary Member: Those recognised for exceptional service to Afrikan scholarship or community upliftment; awarded by the Board.

Ordinary Member

• Open to adults who identify with or are committed to Afrikan spirituality, indigenous wisdom, and decolonial transformation.
• Expected to engage actively in ACIPS programs and community-oriented projects.
• Possess full voting rights after successful probation and demonstration of commitment.

Student Member

• Open to tertiary-level students, interns, and early-career participants.
• Entitled to mentorship and learning opportunities within ACIPS research and training programs.
• Enjoy reduced membership fees and participatory (non-decisive) voting rights.

3. Application & Review

• Applicants complete the ACIPS Membership Form and attach any supporting documents or community references.
• The Membership Committee reviews applications based on values alignment and contribution potential.
• Successful applicants serve a probation period of up to six months before confirmation.

4. Rights & Responsibilities

• Members may attend events, access ACIPS publications, and participate in projects.
• Members must act with respect, integrity, and adherence to community protocols.
• Research or communication under the ACIPS name requires ethical compliance and consent where applicable.
• Members must maintain updated contact information and avoid conflicts of interest.

5. Fees & Contributions

Membership fees are determined by the ACIPS Board and may be adjusted annually. Reduced fees apply to students and community practitioners. Donations and voluntary contributions are welcome but must be transparent and receipted.

6. Code of Conduct

• Show respect, humility, and cooperation within ACIPS spaces and public events.
• Uphold community dignity and confidentiality in all research or rituals.
• No harassment, exploitation, or discrimination of any form will be tolerated.
• Misuse of sacred knowledge or symbols constitutes a serious offence and may result in suspension.

7. Indigenous Knowledge & Intellectual Property (IP)

• All research or documentation must follow Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) protocols.
• Knowledge holders retain ownership and custodianship rights.
• Any benefit derived from community knowledge must be shared equitably.
• Commercialisation of sacred or restricted knowledge without permission is strictly prohibited.

8. Research & Community Projects

• Projects must include community consultation, co-design, and ethical review.
• All ACIPS-supported research must have a benefit-sharing plan.

9. Events & Public Activities

• Event organisers must follow cultural protocols and seek guidance from custodians.
• Photographs or recordings of sacred practices require prior written consent.

10. Use of ACIPS Name & Logo

• The ACIPS name, logo, or official materials may not be used without authorisation.
• Misrepresentation of ACIPS or its projects is subject to disciplinary action.

11. Complaints & Discipline

• Complaints must be filed in writing to the Membership Secretary.
• Investigations are conducted fairly and confidentially.
• Sanctions may include warnings, mediation, suspension, or termination of membership.

12. Data Protection & Privacy

• Members’ personal data is used solely for organisational purposes and protected under relevant data laws.
• Members may request access or removal of their data at any time.

13. Termination & Reinstatement

• Members may resign at any time by written notice.
• Membership may be terminated for ethical violations or sustained inactivity.
• Reinstatement may be granted by the Board upon demonstration of commitment.

14. Amendments

Changes to these regulations require a two-thirds majority of the ACIPS Board and subsequent notice to the membership assembly.

15. Membership Declaration

I, [Full Name], have read and understood the ACIPS Values & Regulations. I commit to uphold the principles of Ubuntu, Afrikan spirituality, and decolonial integrity in all ACIPS-related activities. I agree to abide by the organisation’s ethics, cultural protocols, and data policies.

Signature: ____________________      Date: ____________________