Purpose & Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all participants including attendees, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, staff and guests across all conference venues, exhibition areas, social events, online sessions and digital communication channels associated with ScientiFRIKA.

By participating, each individual agrees to uphold this code and contribute to a professional, respectful, and harassment-free experience for everyone.

Expected Standards of Conduct

All participants are expected to:

• Treat all individuals with respect and consideration, valuing diverse perspectives, experiences, and contributions.
• Communicate professionally and courteously, avoiding language or actions that may be demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing.
• Refrain from disruptive or inappropriate behaviors that hinder sessions, exhibits, or discussions.
• Respect personal boundaries and physical space of others.
• Comply with the directions of conference organizers, security personnel, and venue staff at all times.
• Uphold integrity and professionalism in all presentations, exhibitions, and promotional materials.
• Report observed or experienced inappropriate behavior promptly to event organizers or designated conduct officers.
• Support a culture of safety, ensuring a positive and productive environment for all participants.

Scope of Prohibited Behaviors 

To ensure a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all participants, the following behaviors are strictly prohibited at ScientiFRIKA Conference and Exhibition, including all sessions, exhibitions, networking areas, social events, and online platforms associated with the event.

• Any form of harassment, discrimination, or offensive conduct based on personal attributes such as gender, gender identity or expression, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, faith, beliefs, age, physical appearance, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, professional background, or academic standing is strictly prohibited.
• Participants must also refrain from verbal or written misconduct such as the use of offensive, demeaning, or insulting language whether spoken, written, or online along with hostile questioning, shouting, public humiliation, persistent unwanted communication, spreading false or malicious statements, or engaging in debates that turn into personal attacks.
• Physical or sexual misconduct, including unwelcome touching, hugging, or physical proximity, sexual advances, propositions, or suggestive comments, display of sexually explicit or inappropriate materials, stalking, following individuals without consent, or any form of physical aggression or threat of violence, will not be tolerated under any circumstance.
• Intimidation, bullying, or coercion in any form, including deliberate attempts to silence others, pressuring participants into unwanted activities or discussions, misusing authority for personal or professional gain, or retaliating against those who report inappropriate behavior, are equally prohibited.
• Participants must also avoid any actions that disrupt conference activities such as interrupting presentations or exhibitions, engaging in unruly behavior, damaging or misusing materials or property, using the venue for unauthorized demonstrations or promotions, or showing disrespect for event property and venue regulations through acts of vandalism, theft, or unauthorized access.
• Furthermore, all attendees are required to comply with lawful instructions and safety-related directives issued by organizers, volunteers, venue staff, or security personnel, as refusal to do so may result in immediate removal from the venue. Retaliation against individuals who report misconduct, cooperate in investigations, or raise legitimate concerns about inappropriate behavior is strictly prohibited and will be addressed with utmost seriousness.

Reporting Concerns 

If you experience or witness behavior that violates this Code, please contact a ScientiFRIKA staff member or visit the event support & conduct desk onsite. All reports will be handled promptly, sensitively, and confidentially or by email at inquiries@vcgl.ng.

Closing Statement

Together, we can create a space that reflects the very spirit of ScientiFRIKA curiosity, collaboration and respect. Thank you for upholding these values and contributing to a meaningful, inclusive, and inspiring event experience for all.