The reputation of STARS International University® depends on the common sense, ethical standards, and personal integrity of every university employee. As it grows, it is crucial that our daily operations are always conducted responsibly and ethically.

General Statement

The purpose of this policy is to outline the high standards of ethics and quality applicable to volunteers, employees, agents, and representatives of STARS International University®.

Compliance with Laws and Regulations

STARS International University® operations must comply with all applicable legal requirements. Every employee and volunteer is obligated to adhere to the letter and spirit of these laws and regulations. Except in the performance of their duties, employees may not use or disclose confidential information such as business plans, financial data, trade secrets, or customer and supplier information.

The responsibility for understanding legal requirements rests with the staff and the Board of Directors. When questions arise, employees should consult with the appropriate staff or Board members. Legal counsel should also be sought when necessary. Management, in conjunction with legal counsel, establishes procedures to ensure compliance with laws. Employees are responsible for implementing these procedures within their areas of responsibility. Minutes of all Board and committee meetings shall be recorded, distributed, and approved. Attendance and voting results are recorded.

Conflicts of Interest

The success and integrity of STARS International University® depend on employees and volunteers adhering to legal, moral, and ethical standards. They are obligated to avoid situations that could lead to a conflict of interest or negatively impact their loyalty. Employees and volunteers must protect the interests of the university and refrain from actions that could damage its reputation. Participation in activities that constitute a real or perceived conflict of interest is prohibited. If such interests arise, they should be discussed immediately with a supervisor. Volunteers are required to report potential conflicts to the Board of Directors annually. Any activity that violates this policy may not be initiated or continued without the written permission of the responsible supervisor or Board member. Management, in conjunction with the Rector and legal counsel, develops procedures for determining the existence of conflicts of interest and makes the final decision on disputed matters.

Examples of actions that violate this policy:

1. Outside employment that interferes with or negatively affects the performance of official duties.
2. Direct or indirect ownership of stock or debt in university suppliers.
3. Acceptance of significant gifts, entertainment, loans, or other benefits from suppliers.
4. Financial interest in university transactions.
5. Unauthorized disclosure or use of confidential information.
6. Use of university assets for personal benefit.
7. Engagement in activities that could be considered illegal or unethical.

The university management commits to:

complying with all applicable requirements of legislative and regulatory acts, and quality standards for the organization's activities;

− establishing quality objectives and goals, eliminating hazards and reducing quality risks;

− conducting regular reviews of the organization's activities, customer feedback, and the achievement of set goals and quality policy for their continued suitability;

− striving for continuous improvement of the quality management system based on reviews and monitoring, through corrective actions;

− communicating the quality policy in an accessible manner to employees and interested parties, implementing it at all levels of the organization, and ensuring its relevance.

− continuous improvement of the competence of employees and faculty;

− integration of the educational process with practice.

Payments to Public Officials, Clients, and Others

To comply with the law and preserve the university's reputation, bribery or other illegal payments to public officials, clients, suppliers, or other individuals are prohibited. This applies to both direct and indirect payments through third parties.

Gifts and Fees

Employees and volunteers are permitted to engage in political activities on their own time and at their own expense. The university will not reimburse such expenses nor endorse political statements on its behalf.

Receipt of Items by Employees, Agents, and Representatives

Employees, volunteers, and representatives of the university may accept refreshments or entertainment of nominal value associated with business meetings. Such events should be infrequent and modest. Accepting significant gifts from individuals or companies with whom the university does business is prohibited. If such a gift cannot be returned, it will be forwarded to the general office for disposition.

General Rules for Employees

All expenses for refreshments and entertainment must be fully documented. Promotional items from suppliers of minor value are permissible. More valuable gifts should be returned to the giver with an explanation. Employees are obligated to act with integrity and report any unethical conduct by suppliers to the Rector.

Accounting and Financial Records

The university's financial records must accurately reflect all transactions. The creation of false entries, unauthorized funds, or inaccurate reports is prohibited. The internal control system must ensure that transactions are compliant, assets are accounted for accurately, and unauthorized access is prevented.

Ethics Education

Employees are required to undergo ethics training to better understand their responsibilities and navigate potential ethical dilemmas.

Violations and Disciplinary Actions

Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment, contract cancellation, criminal prosecution, or recovery of damages to the university. Principles of fairness will be applied in considering each case, and employees will be given an opportunity to explain their actions.