Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

MBEYA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

MUSTSO CONSTITUTION

2017

MUSTSO Constitution 2017

 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

Table of Contents
ARTICLE 1 ...................................................................................................... 3
1.1 ESTABLISHMENT OF THE ORGANIZATION AND HEADQUARTERS ........ 3
1.2 AUTHORITY OF THE CONSTITUTION ..................................................... 3
ARTICLE 2 ...................................................................................................... 4
DEFINITIONS............................................................................................... 4
ARTICLE 3 ...................................................................................................... 5
OFFICIAL LANGUAGES................................................................................ 5
ARTICLE 4 ...................................................................................................... 6
STATUS ....................................................................................................... 6
ARTICLE 5 ...................................................................................................... 6
OBJECTIVES ............................................................................................... 6
ARTICLE 6 ...................................................................................................... 7
MUSTSO POWERS AND FUNCTIONS ........................................................... 7
ARTICLE 7 ...................................................................................................... 8
MEMBERSHIP AND TERMINATION .............................................................. 8
ARTICLE 8 ...................................................................................................... 9
RIGHTS OF MEMBERS ................................................................................ 9
ARTICLE 9 .................................................................................................... 10
RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERS ............................................................ 10
ARTICLE 10 .................................................................................................. 10
ORGANS OF MUSTSO................................................................................ 10
ARTICLE 11 .................................................................................................. 11
THE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL (USRC) .......... 11
ARTICLE 12 .................................................................................................. 13
THE CABINET ............................................................................................ 13
ARTICLE 13 .................................................................................................. 15
JUDICIARY OF MUSTSO ............................................................................ 15
ARTICLE 14 .................................................................................................. 16
STUDENTS’ BARAZA.................................................................................. 16
ARTICLE 15 .................................................................................................. 18
ELECTORAL COMMITTEE ......................................................................... 18
ARTICLE 16 .................................................................................................. 20
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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

QUALIFICATIONS FOR LEADERSHIP ......................................................... 20

ARTICLE 17 .................................................................................................. 22
THE BLOCK ASSEMBLY ............................................................................ 22
ARTICLE 18 .................................................................................................. 23
OFFICE BEARERS AND THEIR DUTIES ..................................................... 23
ARTICLE 19 .................................................................................................. 31
FUNCTIONS OF MINISTRIES ..................................................................... 31
ARTICLE 20 .................................................................................................. 35
CEASATION FROM LEADERSHIP............................................................... 35
ARTICLE 21 .................................................................................................. 36
FINANCIAL PROVISIONS............................................................................ 36
ARTICLE 22 .................................................................................................. 37
AUDIT........................................................................................................ 37
ARTICLE 23 .................................................................................................. 37
CAPACITY TO CONTRACT .......................................................................... 37
ARTICLE 24 .................................................................................................. 37
AMENDMENTS .......................................................................................... 37
ARTICLE 25 .................................................................................................. 38
RECOGNITION AND EXISTANCE OF MUSTSO BY UNIVERSITY COUNCIL . 38
ARTICLE 26 .................................................................................................. 39
DISSOLUTION ........................................................................................... 39
ARTICLE 27 .................................................................................................. 39
PORTRAITS OF PAST OFFICE BEARERS ................................................... 39
ARTICLE 28 .................................................................................................. 39
OATH......................................................................................................... 39
ARTICLE 29 .................................................................................................. 40
MORALS AND ETHICS OF MUSTSO........................................................... 40
ARTICLE 30 .................................................................................................. 41
BY-ELECTIONS.......................................................................................... 41
ARTICLE 31 .................................................................................................. 41
MISCELLANEOUS ...................................................................................... 41

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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

THE PREAMBLE

WHEREAS students of the Mbeya University of Science and Technology

understand and believe that the Mbeya University of Science and Technology
plays its Roles in its own unique environment and system in serving the
nation;

AND WHEREAS students understand and believe that only a diligent

autonomous and independent Students’ Organization run democratically by
the students themselves will be completely responsible to students among
themselves and administration hence serve their interests to its best level;

NOW, THEREFORE, this Constitution is enacted by the University Students

Representative Council (USRC) of Mbeya University of Science and Technology
on behalf of the MUST students for the purpose of enhancing academic
prosperity, good governance and relations, democracy and human rights
observance, hence the Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students
Organization will always cherish, co-operate and associate in all civil society
activities as it deems fit for the interest of its members.

ARTICLE 1
1.1 ESTABLISHMENT OF THE ORGANIZATION AND HEADQUARTERS

i. There shall be a Students’ Organization to be known as the Mbeya

University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization or by its
acronym of MUSTSO.

ii. The organisation shall be the sole representative body of its members
in pursuance of its aims and objectives

iii. The Headquarters of the organization shall be at the Mbeya University

of Science and Technology (MUST) Main Campus, P. O. Box 131,
Mbeya, Tanzania.

1.2 AUTHORITY OF THE CONSTITUTION

This Constitution is the governing document which shall regulate the
management and the operations of the students’ organization. All the
provisions and articles in this Constitution shall be enforced and
followed by the members of the organization and students’ government of
MUST.

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ARTICLE 2

DEFINITIONS

2.1 In this Constitution, unless the context otherwise requires:-

“Block” means Hall of residence/Hostel

“Block Manager” Means a student leader in a Hall of residence/Hostel and
who is also a constituent member of the Block Assembly and the Block
committee
“Block Secretary” means a student leader in a hall of residence/Hostel and
who is also a Constituent member of the Block Assembly and the Block
Committee and is the chief executive in the said hall/ hostel
“Cabinet” means an organ of MUSTSO established by article 12 of this
Constitution;
“Class Representative” means a student leader of MUSTSO referred to in
article 18.22 of this constitution;
“Constitution” means the Constitution of MUSTSO
“Deputy Minister” means a member of Cabinet and MUSTSO officer appointed
in accordance with the provisions of article 12.3 of this Constitution
“Deputy Speaker of the University Students Representatives’ Council”
means a MUSTSO officer elected in accordance with provisions of article 11.7
of this Constitution
“Female Representatives” means MUSTSO officers referred to in article 18.19
of this Constitution
“Government” means the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania;
“Law of land” means laws of the United Republic of Tanzania including but
not limited to Constitution of United Republic, Acts of Parliament, Regulations,
Government Seculars and By-Laws.
“Member” means a student admitted in accordance with provisions of article 7
of this constitution;
“Minister” means a member of the Cabinet and MUSTSO officer appointed in
accordance with the provision of article 12.3 of this Constitution;
“MUST Organs of Governance” includes the University Council, Colleges,
Institutes, Schools, Departments, Committees and the Administration and
“MUST Students Representative Council” means an organ of MUSTSO
established by Article 11.1 of this Constitution;
“MUST” means the Mbeya University of Science and Technology;
“MUSTSO Judiciary” means an organ of MUSTSO established by article 13.1
of this Constitution
“MUSTSO” means Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’
Organization established under article 1.1(i) of this constitution;
“NTA” Means National Technical Award;
“Ordinary Diploma” means Ordinary Diploma Programmes;

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“Organs of MUSTSO” means the organs established by article 10 of this

Constitution;
“President” means MUSTSO officer and Chairperson of the Cabinet elected by
votes of all MUSTSO members;
“Prime Minister” means a MUSTSO officer appointed in accordance with the
provision of article 12.3 of this Constitution
“Regulations” means any by-laws, rules, order made by MUSTSO or
University authority;
“Secretary to the University Students Representatives’ Council” means a
MUSTSO officer appointed in accordance with the provision of Article 11.1(iii)
of this Constitution
“Speaker of the University Students Representatives’ Council” means a
MUSTSO officer elected in accordance with provision of Article 11.7 of this
Constitution;
“Student(s)” means any student(s) who is admitted at the University for a
Degree, Diploma, Certificate or other awards of the University;
“Students Baraza” means the supreme organ of MUSTSO established by
article 14.1 of this Constitution;
“Students Community” means all students registered with the University to
pursue various programs of study;
“Students Disciplinary Authority” means disciplinary authority established
and constituted in accordance with University authority;
“Undergraduate” means Bachelor Degree Programmes;
“University Authority” means any MUST staff or organ conferred a power by
the Council of the University to deal with student matters;
“University” means Mbeya University of Science and Technology;
“Vice President” means a MUSTSO officer and Vice Chairperson of the
Cabinet elected by the votes of MUSTSO members.

2.2 Wherever appropriate, reference in this Constitution to the masculine

gender shall be construed to include the feminine and vice versa, the
singular to include the plural and Vice Versa

ARTICLE 3
OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

The official languages of MUSTSO shall be English and Swahili and each shall
be used as appropriate.

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ARTICLE 4
STATUS

MUSTSO shall be a semi-autonomous organization within the framework of the

Mbeya University of Science and Technology duly established and the
Regulations made there under and shall endeavor to fulfill its objectives to the
best interest of members and the University in general.

ARTICLE 5

OBJECTIVES

The general objectives of MUSTSO shall be as provided hereunder:

5.1 To promote and protect the interests and rights of its members in all
aspects of their academic and social levels during their existence at the
University

5.2 To establish a proper organizational basis for communication between

the University authority and the students as well as maintaining
harmonious relations between students and academic members of staff;
the University administration and the community in general.

5.3 To promote within the students’ community respect for learning among
various disciplines offered by the University and to impart knowledge
and truth; to promote progress and responsible application of the
acquired knowledge towards sustainable development of the nation

5.4 To promote academic freedom as an inalienable right of students at the

University and inculcate a sense of integrity, self respect, devotion,
commitment and accountability in the students towards the Tanzania
society and mankind they are bound to serve

5.5 To promote and maintain fraternal relations, dialogue, and carry out any
other activities both academic and non-academic in collaboration with
other students’ organizations in the Higher Learning Institutions in
Tanzania, Africa and the rest of the world

5.6 To stimulate and promote all desirable aspects of cultural development

which inculcate the spirit of love for sports and arts in order to keep the
University a fertile ground on which best talents can be developed.

5.7 Subject to the law of the land, to participate in the advancement of a free
and democratic Tanzania society based on the principles of social
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equality and justice which uphold the values of human rights, freedoms
and liberties of the individual and the society in general, regardless of
race, color, ethnicity or tribe, religion and gender
5.8 To strive for improvement of the quality of life of the students at the
University at significant and reasonable standards

5.9 To perform any other duties and functions imposed or conferred on the
student’s organization by or under the law of the land within the
framework of the University Rules and Regulations
5.10 To act as a medium for students through their competent leaders to
speak for and on behalf of them generally and as an avenue for
communication and exchange of information between the students and
the management of the University

5.11 To do all such things and acts as may be required, desirable or expedient
in order to further the objectives and functions of MUSTSO

ARTICLE 6
MUSTSO POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

Pursuant to the objectives stated in Article 5 thereof, MUSTSO shall carry out
any or all of the following functions: -

6.1 In consultation with the relevant University authority, to organize

debates, seminars, workshops, conference, congresses, study tours, and
symposia to enhance intellectual awareness of the Students’ community

6.2 Organize funds and sponsor students’ research and projects in academic
fields in order to promote creativity and originality in matters of
intellectual interest to the scholarly community and the nation

6.3 Publish journals, articles, books, newspapers, leaflets, magazines,

recordings or other forms of publications which reflect the University
activities and mission, in collaboration and/ or with the approval of the
University authority.

6.4 Invite any distinguished personalities, such as government, social,

academic and cultural leaders, to interact with the student community
by ways of lectures, panel or group discussions, workshops or any other
means that would promote healthy and constructive discussions of
contemporary social, scientific and political issues by approval of the
University authority.

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6.5 In consultation with the University authority, to correspond and

communicate with students, youth and any other organizations which
share and promote common objectives with MUSTSO
6.6 Establish committees, secretariats, commissions, or any other functional
organs for the better discharge of the objectives of MUSTSO
6.7 Question and inquire into the membership of any student who has not
met the admission conditions into the Students’ Organization
6.8 Collaborate with disciplinary authority of the University; to initiate
disciplinary proceedings against any student who breaches the Student
By-Laws

6.9 Do, in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution, all such acts
and things as may be required in order to further the powers, objectives
and functions of MUSTSO

6.10 Organize and lead students’ demands and rights in accordance with the
established procedures and in conformity with the objectives and
functions of MUSTSO

6.11 Ensure students’ discipline, orderliness and obedience are observed

among its members

6.12 Submit at the end of every academic year a performance report to the
Director of Students Affairs who shall submit the same to the University
Council.

6.13 Prepare and amend the Constitution of the Organization, election

regulations, rules governing peer support services and organize and
implement outreach programmes

ARTICLE 7
MEMBERSHIP AND TERMINATION

7.1 Every student admitted by the University for the Award of Bachelor
Degree, Postgraduate Degree, Ordinary Diploma and any other award as
approved by the University, shall become a member of MUSTSO upon
such admission

7.2 Students admitted for short courses whose tenure of study is not less
than one academic year shall also be admitted to membership

7.3 Every member of MUSTSO shall pay an annual membership fee as shall
be prescribed from time to time by rules made by the USRC established
under this Constitution and approved by University authority
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7.4 Membership shall cease when a member: -

a. Completes his or her studies
b. Is terminated from studies on academic or any other grounds;
c. Transfer to another University; or
d. Dies

ARTICLE 8
RIGHTS OF MEMBERS

A member of MUSTSO shall be entitled to the following rights to:-

8.1 Attend and participate in all activities organized or undertaken by

MUSTSO subject to such conditions and restrictions as the USRC may
impose;

8.2 Elect MUSTSO leaders in various positions as per MUSTSO Constitution;

8.3 Stand for election for any post established by the Constitution;

8.4 Obtain and inspect relevant copies of documents of MUSTSO upon

written request to the Prime Minister;

8.5 Attend and vote in authorized general meetings and any other meetings
of members provided for by this Constitution on the basis of one member
one vote respectively;

8.6 Receive all publications of MUSTSO at concession/compromise as

determined by the Students Representative Council from time to time;

8.7 Appear before and/or appeal to any established organ of MUSTSO vested
with jurisdiction of determining rights and liabilities of a member;

8.8 Question and inquire the discharge of the functions by any one of the
office bearer of MUSTSO;

8.9 Subject to conditions prescribed by the Students Representative Council,

to have access to and use facilities owned, possessed or entrusted to
MUSTSO;

8.10 Make a follow up of any decision made by external authority which

affects his studentship;

8.11 Use the MUSTSO facilities to the maximum advantage of his/her career
subject to prevailing conditions for the use of such facilities;

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8.12 Students shall have rights to freely and peaceably,

a. assemble,
b. demonstrate,
c. express their opinion, and
d. conduct their referendum
Provided that they do not cause breach of Students By-Laws and the law of the
land

ARTICLE 9
RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERS

Every member of MUSTSO shall be obliged to discharge the following duties:-

9.1 Uphold and defend the provisions of this Constitution.

9.2 Pay fees and other subscriptions as determined by the University

Students Representative Council (USRC) and approved by the University
authority.

9.3 Attend all relevant meetings lawfully convened by MUSTSO or the

University.

9.4 Devote his/her energy and time to the advancement of MUSTSO‘s

objectives and functions.

9.5 Refrain from influencing MUSTSO or any of its office bearers in any way
or manner that has the consequence of prejudicing the status of
MUSTSO or any interests of the members.

9.6 Carry out in good faith any lawful assignments as may be delegated to
him or her by MUSTSO or University.

ARTICLE 10
ORGANS OF MUSTSO

10.1 There shall be established the following principal organs of MUSTSO:

a. The University Students’ Representative Council (USRC);
b. The Cabinet; and
c. The Judiciary;
Each of the principal organs shall be independent.

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10.2 Other organs of MUSTSO include the following:

a. The Students’ Baraza
b. The Electoral Committee (EC);
c. The Block Assembly

ARTICLE 11
THE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL (USRC)

11.1 There shall be a USRC which shall constitute of the following members:-
i. The Speaker of the USRC
ii. Deputy Speaker of the USRC
iii. Secretary of the USRC
iv. The Prime Minister
v. The Ministers
vi. The Deputy Ministers
vii. The Block Managers
viii. The Class Representatives
ix. Female Representatives

11.2 The USRC shall meet at least twice in every academic semester as
provided for in the University almanac and shall be convened by Speaker
of USRC in collaboration with the Prime Minister upon giving a three (3)
days public notice or a shorter period as the circumstances may
demand.

11.3 An extra-ordinary meeting of the USRC shall be convened in accordance

with the provisions of Article 14.3 of this Constitution.

11.4 The Speaker of the USRC shall preside over all meetings of the USRC
and in his/her absence the Deputy Speaker of the USRC shall preside
over that particular meeting

11.5 The quorum for the USRC shall be two thirds (2/3) of the members and
where the meeting lacks such quorum the meeting shall be postponed to
another date and or time as will be determined by the Speaker of the
USRC, after consultation with the Prime Minister

11.6 All decisions in the USRC shall be arrived at by consensus or by simple

majority if voting is taken up. In case of voting, each member eligible to
vote shall have one vote except the Speaker of the USRC or the
Chairperson of such particular meeting as the case may be, who shall
have an additional or casting vote in case of a tie

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11.7 The Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the USRC shall be elected by the
Students Representative Council from a list of candidates approved by
the Electoral Committee during the Council’s (USRC) first meeting. The
President and his/her Cabinet shall not be eligible to be elected as
Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the USRC

11.8 The Students Representative Council shall have the right to nominate
candidates to the office of the Speaker of the USRC from within USRC or
the Students’ membership in general

11.9 One female representative to the USRC shall be elected by female

students from each College, Institute and School during the general
elections.

11.10 The two class representatives shall be elected by members of the

respective classes in consideration of gender. The one with the highest
votes will be the “Mbunge” to represent the respective class in the USRC
meetings.

11.11 A member of the USRC shall not be entitled to any remuneration but
may be reimbursed by MUSTSO for any expenses properly and bonafide
incurred by them in the course of performance of their MUSTSO duties

11.12 The Students Representative Council shall discharge the following

functions:
i. Elect the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the USRC.
ii. Confirm the Secretary of the USRC who shall be nominated by the
Speaker of the University Students’ Representatives Council
iii. Confirm the Prime Minister appointed by the President.
iv. Appoint interim MUSTSO President and Cabinet where the
President and his Cabinet have been voted out of office, provided
that the interim president shall not be Speaker, Deputy Speaker
and Secretary of the USRC.
v. Receive, discuss, review and recommend for approval by the
students’ Baraza the annual budget, strategic plans and annual
report as prepared by the Cabinet
vi. Receive and consider the handing over report prepared by the
retiring government.
vii. Recommend to the University authority legal action to be taken
against any officer of MUSTSO who contravenes the MUSTSO
Constitution
viii. Approve a motion of a vote of NO confidence against a MUSTSO
president in a case where he/she breaches this Constitution,
provided that in any such case, two thirds (2/3) of the members of

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the USRC shall support the motion and recommend to the

Students Baraza.
ix. Prepare the agenda for the Students’ Baraza
x. Establish and disestablish USRC Committees as may be found
necessary for execution of MUSTSO functions;
xi. Perform any other duties as the Students’ Baraza may from time to
time delegate to it within the framework of this Constitution or as
may be necessary or expedient for the efficient and effective
execution of its functions under this constitution
xii. Approve motion of vote of no confidence against a MUSTSO Prime
minister in case he/she breaches this constitution, provided that
in any such case, two thirds (2/3) of the members of the USRC
shall support the motion and recommend to the President.

11.13 Where there is a conflict between a decision made by the Cabinet and
the University Students’ Representative Council, the Judiciary shall give
ruling.

11.14 Where the Cabinet or the Students Representative Council is aggrieved

by the decision made by the Judiciary under sub-section 11.13, a
referendum shall be called to obtain students’ opinion over the matter.

11.15 Where the referendum is called, the Director of Students Affairs shall
supervise the referendum proceedings

11.16 The Director of Students Affairs shall make sure that the referendum
referred to under sub-article 11.15 is conducted in a manner which
guarantees every student the right of free expression
11.17 The Director of Students Affairs and Student’s Counselors shall attend
the USRC meetings but shall have no voting right

ARTICLE 12
THE CABINET

12.1 The affairs of MUSTSO shall be managed and supervised by the Cabinet
headed by the President.

12.2 The Cabinet of MUSTSO shall be comprised of:-

i. The President
ii. The Vice President
iii. The Prime minister
iv. The Ministers

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12.3 The Prime Minister, Ministers, and Deputy Ministers shall be appointed
by the President in consultation with the Vice President from amongst
the Students and confirmed by the USRC in its first meeting and shall be
responsible and answerable to the MUSTSO President.

12.4 The President shall have the discretion to determine the number of
ministers provided that, the number of ministers shall not at any
particular time, exceed ten.

12.5 All Cabinet members shall attend Cabinet meetings and have voting
right.

12.6 The Cabinet shall meet at least twice in each academic semester and the
President shall convene all Cabinet meetings and the Prime Minister
shall be the secretary, provided that the President may call any extra-
ordinary meetings at any time he/she considers it necessary.

12.7 The President of MUSTSO or in his/her absence, the Vice president shall
preside at all meetings of the Cabinet and in the absence of both of
them, the members forming a quorum shall elect an interim chairperson
from amongst their members.

12.8 The MUSTSO Cabinet headed by the President shall be charged with
carrying out the day to day activities and obligations of MUSTSO

12.9 The appointment of Ministers and Deputy Ministers shall endeavor to

achieve proportionate representation with regard to sex, students with
special needs, colleges, institutes, and schools

12.10 Without prejudice the foregoing, the functions of the Cabinet shall
include among others:-
i. Preparation of the annual budget, the quarterly, half-yearly and
annual income and expenditure statements and the strategic plans
of MUSTSO
ii. Preparation of annual reports on the operations and activities of
MUSTSO handing-over report, and other things or matters as shall
be directed by the Students’ Baraza or the USRC
iii. Keeping and maintaining proper books of accounts and records
with respect to MUSTSO funds and ensuring that they are audited
annually by the University Internal Auditor.
iv. Proposing rates of membership annual fees and subscription
through USRC to the University authority for approval.
v. Initiating, promoting and supervising fund raising activities for
MUSTSO

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vi. Preparation of draft amendments to the Constitution and rules

made thereunder
vii. Performing such other functions and activities as may enhance the
realization of the fundamental objectives and functions of MUSTSO

12.11 The Cabinet quorum shall be two thirds (2/3) and it will make internal
regulations for the conduct of its proceedings

ARTICLE 13
JUDICIARY OF MUSTSO

13.1 Establishment
i. There shall be the MUSTSO Judiciary
ii. There shall be a Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson and Secretary
to the Judiciary who shall be elected from amongst the members of
the Judiciary elected.
iii. The quorum of election meeting shall be two thirds (2/3) of
chairpersons and secretaries from the respective College, Institute
and School.

13.2 Composition
The Judiciary is composed of:
a. Chairpersons, and
b. Secretaries
from every College, School and Institute

13.3 The Judiciary shall meet at least twice in every academic semester as
provided for in the University almanac and shall be convened by the
Secretary in consultation with the Chairperson of the Judiciary upon
giving a three (3) days public notice or a shorter period as the
circumstances may demand.

13.4 An extra-ordinary meeting of the Judiciary shall be convened by the

Secretary in consultation with the Chairperson in accordance with the
provisions of Article 14.3 of this constitution.

13.5 The Chairperson of the Judiciary shall preside at all the meetings and in
his/her absence the Deputy Chairperson of the Judiciary shall preside
over that particular meeting.

13.6 The quorum of the meeting shall be two thirds (2/3) of the members and
where the meeting lacks such quorum the meeting shall be postponed to

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another date and/or time as will be determined jointly by the

Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson and the Secretary.

13.7 Unless otherwise stipulated in this Constitution, decisions of the

Judiciary shall be arrived at by consensus of members or by voting

13.8 Each member eligible for voting shall have one vote at all meetings,
except the Chairperson who shall have an additional or casting vote in
case of a tie

13.9 The functions of Judiciary of MUSTSO:

i. To interpret By-Laws and Regulations of MUSTSO governs day to
day MUSTSO activities.
ii. To supervise good conduct of MUSTSO leaders including the
Cabinet, the USRC and other MUSTSO leaders.
iii. To receive, discuss and make decision on all matters regarding
students cases and petition/complaints pertaining to University
students life and report decisions made to the Director of Students
Affairs within three (3) days.
iv. To receive, discuss, and make all decisions on all cases concerning
MUSTSO leaders and report the decisions made to the Director of
Students Affairs within three (3) days.
v. To forward all misconducts which require further decision to the
Director of Students Affairs.
vi. Receive grievances raised by the decision of the Cabinet and the
USRC
vii. To initiate and organize swearing in activities to the incoming
MUSTSO President and his/her running mate.
viii. Receive, discuss and ruling to all MUSTSO election appeals raised
by dissatisfied candidate(s).

13.10 The decision of the Judiciary made under sub-article 13.9 (iii), (iv) and
(viii) shall be final and conclusive.

13.11 Director of Students Affairs and Head of Students Government Judicial

and Control Services shall be invited to attend the Judiciary meetings
and have approval of the meeting but shall have no voting right.

ARTICLE 14
STUDENTS’ BARAZA

14.1 There shall be a Students’ Baraza which shall be constituted by all

members of MUSTSO as per article 7.1 of this Constitution. It shall be

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the supreme organ of MUSTSO on matters of policy and all other organs
established there under shall be subordinate and accountable to it.
14.2 The Students’ Baraza shall meet at least once in every academic
semester as provided for in the University almanac and shall be
convened by the Prime Minister in consultation with the President of
MUSTSO

14.3 An extra-ordinary meeting of the Students’ Baraza shall be convened at

any time by the President chaired by him/her under the following
factors:-
i. By the discretion of the President of MUSTSO; or
ii. Upon receiving a petition for the said meeting signed by two thirds
(2/3) of the University Students Representative Council or
iii. Upon the two factors (i) and (ii) above.

14.4 All meetings of the Students’ Baraza shall be held at the University
Campus upon receiving permission from the University authority
through the Director of Students Affairs showing a specified place, time
and approved agenda.

14.5 All Students’ Baraza meetings (except for dissolving MUSTSO

government) shall be convened by the President and chaired by him/her
upon issuing a three (3) days public notice.

14.6 The President of MUSTSO shall preside at all the meetings of the
Students’ Baraza and in his/her absence; the Vice President shall
preside over that particular meeting.

14.7 The quorum for the meetings shall be at least fifty percent (50%) of all
the members and where the meeting lacks such quorum the meeting
shall be postponed to another date or time to be determined jointly by
the MUSTSO President, Vice President and the Prime Minister.

14.8 Unless otherwise stipulated in this Constitution, decisions of the

Students’ Baraza shall be arrived at by consensus of members or by
voting.

14.9 Each member eligible for voting shall have one vote at all meetings,
except the President who shall have an additional or casting vote in case
of a tie.

14.10 The functions of the Students’ Baraza shall be to; -

i. oversee and monitor the discharge of functions by its subordinate
organs
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ii. establish and or revise policies, carry out business and take such
other appropriate actions or measures as may be deemed
necessary for the furtherance of the MUSTO objectives
iii. discuss all matters of interest to members
iv. approve a vote of no confidence against the President and his
entire Cabinet as recommended by the USRC. The quorum of such
meeting shall be at least two thirds (2/3) of all MUSTSO members.
v. carry out any other functions that would facilitate the discharge of
the MUSTSO objectives
vi. receive and note the annual budget, strategic plans, annual report,
and the audited accounts of MUSTSO
vii. note amendments of this Constitution as proposed by the USRC
viii. note the legal action proposed by USRC against a student’s leader/
member found to have misused, stolen or embezzled the funds of
MUSTSO before forwarded to the University authority
ix. carry out any decision requiring referendum. A referendum shall
be called to make decision which is likely to:-
a. Affect delivery of students services
b. Interrupt academic affairs and
c. Cause breach of peace
Provided that the Director of Students Affairs shall ensure that the
referendum is conducted in a manner which guarantees every
student the right of free expression.
x. carry out any other functions and perform any other legitimate
things which would facilitate the proper discharge of the MUSTSO
objectives.

14.11 The Director of Student Affairs and/or Students’ Counselor shall attend
students BARAZA meetings and have approval of the meeting to proceed
but shall have no voting right.

ARTICLE 15
ELECTORAL COMMITTEE

15.1 i. There shall be an Electoral Committee which shall be responsible for

organizing, overseeing and supervising MUSTSO general elections at
all levels.
ii. There shall be a Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson and Secretary of
the Electoral Committee who shall be elected from amongst the
members of the Electoral Committee except the member of staff.
iii. The election of the Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson and the
Secretary of the Electoral Committee shall be supervised by the
Head of Students Government Judicatory and Control Services.
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15.2 The Electoral Committee shall be composed of:

i. Two members from each School/College/Institute in consideration
of gender
ii. Outgoing Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and the Secretary of the
USRC.
iii. Two staff from University administration; these shall be:
a. the legal officer of the University, and
b. the Head of Students Government Judicatory and Control
Services

15.3 Members of the electoral committee mentioned under Article 15.2 (i)
shall be endorsed by the USRC. Names of all Electoral Committee
members shall be made public two weeks before the MUSTSO General
Elections.

15.4 Members of the Electoral Committee shall not be allowed to contest or be

appointed for any electoral post.

15.5 The Electoral Committee shall organize, supervise and monitor the
general elections in collaboration with the Director of Students Affairs

15.6 Without prejudice to the general provisions of article 15.5, the Electoral
Committee shall in particular:-
i. Prescribe the forms to be used in the general elections;
ii. Short list the candidates aspiring for various electoral posts;
iii. Determine when and how campaigns should be conducted;
iv. Determine the procedures of voting and counting of votes;
v. Announce the posts to be contested, including Chairperson and
Deputy Chairperson of the Judiciary
vi. Announce the election results;
vii. Create awareness to students on voting process and procedures;
viii. Perform such other functions as may be required in order to
further the smooth running of the elections

15.7 The campaign period shall be restricted to five (5) days including the
inauguration and debate day before the date of voting and there shall be
no campaigns during the voting day.

15.8 Unless the Electoral Committee decides to the contrary, all elections
shall be conducted through a secret ballot.

15.9 The general elections shall be conducted in the sixth week of the second
semester of every academic year with respect to the group admitted later.

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15.10 A student who reasonably believes that the election has not been
conducted freely and fairly may object to the Judiciary within forty eight
(48) hours after announcement of results.

15.11 Save for the screening of candidates, any act or decision made by the
Electoral Committee in the discharge of its functions under this
Constitution shall remain valid unless an appeal has been lodged as per
sub-article 15.10.

15.12 A candidate disqualified by the electoral committee for contesting for any
electoral post may appeal to the Judiciary within twenty four (24) hours
after releasing the final candidates and the decision of the Judiciary
shall be final and conclusive.

15.13 The Director of Students Affairs shall be the Chief Returning Officer in
all MUSTSO elections and may provide to the electoral committee with
advice, supply of facilities, and any other necessary requirements for the
same, during the general elections proceedings.

ARTICLE 16
QUALIFICATIONS FOR LEADERSHIP

16.1 Any person aspiring for a leadership position in MUSTSO shall

be required to possess the following qualifications;

i. Be a member of MUSTSO,
ii. He/she should be a registered student of the University pursuing a
course of a duration not less than one academic year,
iii. His/her character and behavior should be good, credible and
trustworthy and capable of commanding respect of the MUSTSO
students’ community,
iv. He/she should be capable of inspiring harmony, unity, peace,
stability and solidarity among the students community,
v. He/she should not have been convicted by a court of law or
University machinery of any offence including but not involving
dishonesty, corruption or moral turpitude,
vi. He/she should be committed to the aims and objectives of
MUSTSO,
vii. He/she should possess a high academic performance with a GPA
of not less than 2.5 from the previous academic year before the
general elections except for first year students,
viii. He/she should have the ability to sustain leadership
responsibilities without impairing academic performance,
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ix. He/she have a clean studentship record with no record of

disorderliness and infraction of University rules and regulations;
x. He/she should have no political or religious affiliation or
allegiance;
xi. He/she should be highly esteemed by members of the Organization
and get positive recommendation from his/her Head of Department
on academic progress and other attributes.

16.2 Any person aspiring for the President, Vice President, Prime Minister,
Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Secretary to the USRC, Chairperson & Deputy
Chairperson and Secretary of Judiciary positions shall be in addition to
the aforementioned qualifications, having the following attributes;

i. Be academically strong with a GPA of not less than 3.0 for Degree/
Postgraduate program aspirants and 2.5 for Ordinary Diploma
aspirants in the academic year before the general elections;
ii. Be fluent in both official languages namely, Kiswahili and English
iii. Be mature enough and possess all qualities of students’ leadership
as stipulated under Article 16(1) of this Constitution
iv. Having leadership experience especially at University/College level
is an added advantage
v. Should be a student who has never been suspended from studies

16.3 The Vice president shall be obtained through the system of running mate
whereby the candidate aspiring for the Vice president position shall align
with a candidate aspiring for MUSTSO President Position.

16.4 The Vice- President shall be elected on the basis of the principle that
where the President hails from the Bachelor or Postgraduate students,
the Vice President of MUSTSO shall hail from the Ordinary Diploma (OD)
Students.

16.5 The President and Vice- President shall stand elected if the President and
Vice President win more than 50% of the votes cast. In case no candidate
attains at least 50% of the cast votes, the election will be repeated in the
next day for the two top candidates.

For the other positions members shall stand elected if they win a bare
majority of the votes cast.

16.6 Without prejudice to Article 16.5 the aggregate voted for the candidates
of the President shall be the votes for Vice president as a running mate

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ARTICLE 17
THE BLOCK ASSEMBLY

17.1 A Block Assembly shall comprise the following:-

i. All residents in the Block
ii. The Block Manager
iii. The Block Secretary
iv. The wing/floor leaders
v. Any member of the Cabinet residing in the Block and
vi. The Students Representative Council residing in the Block

17.2 The Block Manager shall be elected by the Bock Assembly at the same
time when Presidential elections are due and shall hold office for a same
tenure.

17.3 The Block Secretary shall be appointed by the Block Manager and
confirmed by the Block Assembly,

17.4 The Block Assembly shall meet at least twice in every academic
semester. The Block Manager may call an additional meeting: -
i. At any time he/she considers it necessary;
ii. When requested in writing by fifty percent (50%) of the members of
the Block Assembly.

17.5 The quorum for the Block Assembly meetings shall be 50% of the
members residing in the Block and where the meeting lacks a quorum,
the meeting shall be postponed to another date and / or time to be
determined by the Block Manager in consultation with the Block
secretary

17.6 The Block Manager shall chair the meetings of the Block Assembly or in
his/her absence; the members shall appoint any wing leader to chair
that particular meeting.

17.7 All decisions in the Block Assembly shall be arrived at by consensus but
where a vote is taken, each member shall have one vote and in the event
of a tie, the Block Manager or the one who chaired that particular
meeting shall have an extra vote

17.8 The Block Assembly shall have the following functions:-

i. To discuss matters of interest to members residing in the Block
and make recommendations thereupon to the Cabinet or as the
case may be to the appropriate organ of MUSTSO or to the Block
warden
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ii. To consider, adopt and/or approve MUSTSO activities pertaining to

the Block as submitted to it by the Block Manager
iii. To elect to and remove from office the Block Manager
iv. To confirm the appointment of the Block secretary as provided for
under article 17.3 of this Constitution

17.9 Matron/Wardens/Janitors shall attend the Block Assembly but will have
no voting right

17.10 The permission to call the Block Assembly shall be obtained from the
Director of Students Affairs through the Warden of the Block

ARTICLE 18
OFFICE BEARERS AND THEIR DUTIES

18.1 The office bearers of MUSTSO shall include the President and the Vice
President of MUSTSO, the Prime Minister, General Secretary, the
Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the USRC, Secretary to the USRC,
Ministers, Deputy Ministers, PM office/Ministry Secretaries, Chairperson
and Deputy Chairperson of Judiciary, Secretary of the Judiciary, Block
Managers, Wing/Floor Leaders, Class Representatives and females
Representatives.

a. The President of MUSTSO

18.2 There shall be a President of MUSTSO who shall be the head and
principal leader of all MUSTSO members.

The MUSTSO President shall be vested with among others the following duties:
i. To represent MUSTSO in the University occasions/meetings which
require students representation
ii. To head the President office and the Cabinet which shall be in
charge of the day to day affairs of MUSTSO
iii. To convene and chair the Cabinet’s meetings
iv. To be the chief spokesperson of MUSTSO
v. To nominate, assign duties and dismiss Ministers and Deputy
Ministers after consultation with the Vice president and the Prime
Minister
vi. To ensure that all MUSTSO objectives and functions are carried
out by his or her government to the satisfaction of the students’
community
vii. To be accountable to the Students’ Baraza and the University
Administration in regarding the MUSTSO functions;
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viii. To appoint all Secretaries;

ix. To supervise and monitor proper use of all MUSTSO funds
x. To attend all meetings outside the University which require the
representation of the students’ community
xi. To nominate the Prime Minister who shall be confirmed by the
USRC
xii. To mediate, reconcile and resolve petty misunderstandings or
disputes which arise among members of the students community
xiii. To convene in collaboration with the Speaker of USRC and chair all
Students’ Baraza meetings
xiv. To appoint representatives of MUSTSO government into various
University Committees in consultation with the Vice President and
Prime Minister;
xv. To attend University Council meetings; and
xvi. To discharge any duty which will facilitate the realization of the
objectives of MUSTSO in accordance with the provisions of this
Constitution

18.3 The President may, where she/he considers it appropriate, delegate in

writing any one or more of the duties and powers granted to him under
this Constitution to the Vice President or to any Minister within his/her
Cabinet

18.4 In the event that the President of MUSTSO is absent, the duties and
functions of the President shall be discharged by one of the following in
order of preference as specified below:
i. The Vice President
ii. The Chairperson of the Judiciary
iii. The Speaker of the USRC

b. The Vice President of MUSTSO

18.5 The Vice President shall be the principal assistant to the President
in respect of all matters of MUSTSO in general and in particular shall;
i. Be the chief advisor to the President
ii. Act as a Deputy spokesperson of MUSTSO
iii. Collaborate with the President of MUSTSO in appointing ministers
and deputy ministers and assigning them responsibilities and in
dismissing them from office
iv. Perform all duties and functions of the office of President when the
President is absent from or is out of office for any cause which is
not related with eviction from the office

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c. The Prime Minister

18.6 The Prime Minister shall be entrusted with the following duties:-
i. Shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the MUSTSO Cabinet and
shall be the leader of government affairs in USRC
ii. To be secretary to the Cabinet and Students’ Baraza meetings,
iii. To be a custodian of all records of MUSTSO
iv. To keep and maintain records of all properties owned, possessed,
leased to or hired by MUSTSO
v. To be a signatory to MUSTSO bank Accounts
vi. To be Chief Accounting Officer, answerable to the President and
USRC on all funds of MUSTSO
vii. Resolve, with the assistance of the Block Manager, minor conflicts,
petitions/complaints, misunderstandings and disputes amongst
students residing in the block
viii. To carry out such other duties and functions as may otherwise be
delegated and/or assigned to him by the President or Students’
Baraza

d. The General Secretary

18.7 There shall be a General Secretary of the organization who shall be

appointed by the President from amongst members of the Organization.
He/she shall be the assistant to the President in all such duties which
the President is required to do in accordance with this Constitution and
shall be accountable directly to the President.

The General Secretary in particular shall perform the following duties;

i. Obtains and maintains records and storage appropriate facilities
for the President’s office activities
ii. To be head of the organizational secretaries
iii. To keep an up to date register of the members of the organization
iv. Keeps a record of all activities of the organization performed by the
President
v. Maintains contact with MUSTSO’s office bearers
vi. Prepares organization calendar of events
vii. Assists President prepares and files any organization report
required
viii. Assists a President on the preparation of handing over reports
ix. To perform any other duties as may be assigned by the President

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e. Ministers

18.8 Every MUSTSO Minister shall among other things discharge the
following functions:-
i. Be responsible for all policy matters relating to his/her Ministry
ii. Supervise and monitor the implementation of the ministerial
functions and objectives of the Ministry;
iii. In consultation with the deputy ministers to establish committees,
secretariats, commissions or any other functional organ for the
better carrying out of the roles and objectives of the Ministry;
iv. Chair all meetings in his/her Ministry;
v. Be the chief spokes person of his/her respective Ministry;
vi. Be secretary in meetings chaired by the Prime Minister in his/her
respective Ministry; and
vii. To perform any other functions and do all such other acts and
things as may be required, desirable or expedient in furtherance of
the functions and objectives of the Ministry, and MUSTSO in
general

f. Deputy Ministers

18.9 Every Deputy Minister shall:

i. Be the assistant and chief advisor to the Minister and responsible
in respect of all matters relating to a particular Ministry
ii. Act as the Minister during Ministers’ absent from office
iii. Have such powers as the minister after being delegated to him/her
iv. Perform such other functions as are conferred upon him/her by
this Constitution

g. PM Office/Ministry Secretaries

18.10 Every Ministry secretary shall:

i. Be the secretary of the respective office/Ministry.
ii. Be the secretary in proceedings of the office/Ministry meeting.
iii. Be the custodian of the records of the office/Ministry.
iv. Perform other duties as may be assigned to him/her by the
superior.

h. The Speaker of USRC

18.11 The Speaker of USRC shall be entitled to discharge the following duties
inter alia;
i. To chair all meetings of the USRC

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ii. In collaboration with the Prime Minister, to convene where

appropriate meetings of the USRC in accordance with the
provisions of this Constitution and those postponed for lack of
quorum or any other cause
iii. To supervise election of two members (male and female) of
MUSTSO Electoral Committee from each academic College,
Institute and School;
iv. To call, in collaboration with the Director of Students Affairs by-
elections to fill in posts which fall vacant before the annual
general elections
v. In collaboration with the Prime Minister to ensure availability of
copies of this Constitution to all MUSTSO members;
vi. To receive any motion or agenda from members on any matter of
interest to the student community and present the motion or
agenda for discussion before the USRC
vii. Without prejudice to Article 18.11(vi), any motion or agenda which
requires response from the central government shall be
communicated to Prime Minister in writing five (5) days before the
date of the USRC meeting.
viii. To appoint the secretary to the USRC and to be confirmed by the
USRC.

i. Deputy speaker of USRC

18.12 The Deputy speaker of USRC shall perform the functions below:-
i. Be assistant to the Speaker of the USRC
ii. Be a chief advisor to the Speaker of USRC
iii. Collaborate with the Speaker of the USRC in performing duties
iv. Perform all duties and functions of the office of the USRC when the
Speaker is absent from or out of office for any cause

j. Secretary of the USRC

18.13 The Secretary to the Speaker of USRC shall perform the functions below:
i. To be the secretary to the USRC meetings
ii. To take the minutes in proceedings of the USRC’s meetings
iii. To be the custodian of the records of the USRC
iv. To perform any other duties as may be assigned to him/her by the
Speaker of USRC

k. Chairperson of the Judiciary

18.14 The Chairperson of the Judiciary shall be vested with the following
duties:-
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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

i. To call and chair the meetings of the Judiciary

ii. To receive and handle accordingly, the complaints/petitions from
students who feel aggrieved by MUSTSO performance
iii. To call a meeting to handle appeals relating to the General
Elections
iv. To receive any motion or agenda from the Cabinet or USRC which
seems dissatisfied with either of the decision made by and rule out
v. To call Students Baraza for a referendum when the two organs feel
aggrieved by the decision reached by the Judiciary
vi. To perform other duties as may be assigned to him by the students
Organization

l. Deputy Chairperson of the Judiciary

18.15 The Deputy Chairperson of the Judiciary shall perform the functions
below:-
i. Be assistant to the Chairperson of the Judiciary
ii. Be a chief advisor to the Chairperson of the Judiciary
iii. Collaborate with the Chairperson of the Judiciary in performing
duties
iv. Perform all duties and functions of the office of the Judiciary when
the Chairperson is absent from or out of office for any cause

m. Secretary of the Judiciary

18.16 The Secretary of the Judiciary shall perform the functions below:
i. To be the Secretary of the Judiciary
ii. To be Secretary in proceedings of the Judiciary meetings
iii. To supervise and monitor the implementation of the Judiciary
functions
iv. Perform such other functions as are conferred upon him/her by
this Constitution

n. School/College/Institute Chairpersons

18.17 There shall be a Students Chairperson from each academic School,

College, and Institute who shall be elected by members of the respective
School, College, or Institute and shall have the following duties:-
i. To convene students’ meetings at the School/College/Institute
level to discuss common interests related to academic matters
ii. To collect complaints, views and opinions from students belonging
to School/College/Institute and report to the respective
Principal/Dean

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iii. To represent students in meetings of the respective

School/College/Institute called by Principal/Dean when deemed
necessary
iv. To assist in the settling of conflicts, complaints and disputes
among students arising arises in the School/College/Institute
v. To be a member of the Judiciary
vi. Perform such other functions and do such acts or things as may
nurture academic issues in the School/College/Institute

o. School/College/Institute Secretary

18.18 There shall be a Students’ Secretary from each School/College/Institute

who shall be selected by all students from the respective College,
Institute or School and shall have the following duties:-
i. To be the Secretary to the Students’ School/College/Institute
meetings
ii. To assist students with academic problems
iii. To represent students in the School/College/Institute meetings
called by Principal/Dean when deemed necessary
iv. To represent students in all matters relating to day to day
academic affairs in respective School/College/Institute
v. To be a member of the Judiciary
vi. Perform such other functions as are conferred upon him/her by
this Constitution

p. Female Representatives

18.19 There shall be one Female Representative for each College, Institute and
School elected by respective female students.
The Female Representatives shall;
i. Be the custodian of the interests of female students and shall
collect complaints, views and advices emanating from female
students and refer them to their relevant organs of MUSTSO and
where necessary, to the University Administration through the
Director of Students Affairs
ii. Be the chief spokespersons of female students’ interests in the
various organs of MUSTSO
iii. Promote gender balance between the male and female students
and the interest of female students in the student community and;
iv. Perform such other functions and do such other acts or things as
may be required in order to further the interests of the female
students in the University

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q. Block Manager

18.20 Block Managers shall have the following duties:

i. Supervise and monitor the implementation of the MUSTSO
objectives and functions in respect of his/her Block;
ii. Chair the meetings of the Block Assembly;
iii. Advise the responsible Minister on the general cleanliness, security
and welfare of the Block;
iv. Take up and or report to the relevant Minister any matter related
to the general interest and welfare of students resident in the
Block;
v. Nominate the Block Secretary subject to confirmation by the Block
Assembly;
vi. Resolve, with the assistance of the Block Secretary, minor
conflicts, complaints, misunderstandings and disputes amongst
students resident in the Block;
vii. Discuss matters related to caring for sick students, Block
cleanliness and health, academic advice among themselves, report
and discuss students’ abnormal behaviour (e.g. Drug abuse,
smoking of marijuana, prolonged students’ absence in the hall of
residence or failure to attend classes, etc); and
viii. Perform such other functions and do all such other acts or things
as may be required in furtherance of the functions and objectives
of MUSTSO within the Block

r. Block Secretary

18.21 Block Secretary shall;

i. Be responsible to the Block Manager
ii. Be the secretary to the meetings of the Block Assembly
iii. Keep records of matters transacted by students at Block level;
iv. Convene meetings of the Block assembly
v. Act as the Block Manager during the Manager’s absence from
office;
vi. Perform such other functions as may be delegated and/ or
assigned to him/her by the Block Assembly and the Block
Manager

s. Class Representative (CR);

18.22 There shall be two class representatives for each course of specialization
in any academic year elected by students pursuing the same course.

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Class Representatives shall;

i. Convene two meetings per semester to discuss matters of common
interest at class level, and shall keep minutes/records of the said
meetings;
ii. To report cases of sick students to the class master/mistress and
Head of Department once he/she receives such information from
classmates;
iii. Collect complaints, views, advice and recommendations from the
class/ course students on matters relating to teaching and other
academic affairs and shall report the same to the minister
responsible for education;
iv. Assist in the settling of conflicts, complaints, and disputes
amongst students in his/her class;
v. To collect condolence contributions from the class and submit
them to the Ministry of Health whenever a student passes away,
looses parents, spouse or children; and
vi. Perform such other functions and do such acts or things as may
further the academic interests and social welfare of his/her class/
course
vii. To link between the respective class and the office of Heads of
Department and module master especially in academic issues.

ARTICLE 19
FUNCTIONS OF MINISTRIES

Ministers shall prepare monthly reports and submit to Prime Minister. For any
report which may need some clarification, the respective minister shall consult
the Prime Minister.

19.1 Ministry of Education.

There shall be a Ministry of Education with the following functions:

i. Deal with all matters involving academic affairs
ii. Organize and coordinate all educational activities whose interest
will be catalyst in promoting unity in academic matters
iii. Deal with all matters relating to teaching facilities inter alia:
computers, class-rooms, chairs, writing tables, books, printing
services, Library Services and the like; and
iv. To organize and coordinate students’ academic clubs such as IET,
study tours, debates, symposiums, etc.

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19.2 Ministry of Health, Food and Environment.

There shall be a Ministry of Health, Food and Environment with the

following functions:
i. To be responsible for all matters related to students’ health,
catering and environment cleanliness including in hostel Blocks,
cafeteria, MUST Social Club, Mama/Babalishe, classrooms, public
toilets, etc.
ii. To assist sick students as deemed appropriate and report to
Director of Students Affairs for further assistance by ensuring that
these students get medical assistance at the dispensary on time
and report to Director of Students Affairs office for further
assistance if required.
iii. To make sure that the catering services provided in the University
are of a good standard and adhere to hygienic principles.
iv. To make follow up on students payments for health insurance
services in consultation with the Director of Students Affairs and
ensure that students receive their membership cards on time
v. To promote the habit of environmental conservation in and off
campus
vi. To collect condolence contributions whenever a student has lost
parents, spouse or children

19.3 Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs.

There shall be a Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs with the

following functions:
i. To supervise and coordinate all activities linked with information
and publicity, MUSTSO Laws, regulations, rules and By-Laws.
ii. To promote and maintain relations between MUST students’
community and other external communities through information
exchange while adhering to University rules and regulations.
iii. To oversee all matters pertaining to the MUSTSO Constitution
and any other legal issues.
iv. To consult the USRC on Constitutional amendments
v. To advice the MUSTSO government on all constitutional and legal
affairs
vi. To assist in the interpretation of any laws that is applied in the day
to day activities.
vii. To assist in enforcing Students By-Laws and other Regulations
made by the University

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19.4 Ministry of Gender, Religion and Ethical Affairs.

There shall be a Ministry of Gender, Religious and Ethical Affairs with

the following functions:
i. To coordinate all gender and religious activities with the intention
of promoting a peaceful religious atmosphere and social co-
existence within the MUSTSO community
ii. To provide advice in various gender and religious matters to the
central government and community in general.
iii. To promote decent dressing among students
iv. To promote ethics and moral values embodied in the Constitution
and Students By-Laws.

19.5 Ministry of Finance and Planning.

There shall be a Ministry of Finance and Planning with the following

functions:
i. Keeping of accounting records and for all financial matters, both
revenues and expenditures, and for auditing of the accounts.
ii. To interpret the Financial Regulations and shall ensure that are
strictly adhered to.
iii. Laying out plans, administer and supervise all economic projects of
MUSTSO.
iv. To coordinate all Ministries in preparing the annual budget before
being approved by USRC.
v. To advise the PM on all financial matters of the Organization.
vi. To receive all MUSTSO funds in terms of cash, bank pay-in-slips or
cheques from various sources.
vii. To be the custodian of MUSTSO funds and shall keep up to date
records of accounts indicating the income and expenditure of the
organization

19.6 Ministry of Sports, Entertainment and Culture.

There shall be a Ministry of Sports, Entertainment and Culture with the

following functions.
i. To promote and maintain development of sports/games and
culture by ensuring that all necessary facilities are available and
utilized.
ii. To plan, organize and supervise sports/games and cultural
activities within the University community
iii. To promote and maintain good relationship between the MUSTSO,
employees and neighborhood communities through sports, games
and cultural activities
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iv. To organize and co-ordinate all sports and cultural activities to

promote and encourage physical fitness and spirit of comradeship

19.7 Ministry of Information and Public Relations.

There shall be a Ministry of Information and Public Relations with the

following functions:
i. To supervise and co-ordinate all activities linked with information
and publicity.
ii. To be in charge of the students notice board
iii. To promote and maintain relations between MUST students’
community and other external communities through information
exchange.
iv. To organize and co-ordinate all information activities whose
intention is to educate and promote a spirit of awareness and to
update the MUST students’ community on current issues
v. To approve, disapprove and censor any advertisement or notices
put up on campus .All advertisements or notices should have the
Ministry Stamp or signature. In the absence of the Minister or his
Deputy, any student Government official may approve such
materials.

19.8 Ministry of Defense, Security and Disaster Management.

There shall be a Ministry of Defense, Security and Disaster Management

with the following functions.
i. Shall be responsible in all matters pertaining to defense, security
and disaster among members of MUST students community
ii. To advice MUSTSO on all matters pertaining to Defense, Security
and Disasters Management
iii. To organize and coordinate all activities concerning Defense,
Security and Disasters Management

19.9 Ministry of Infrastructure and Accommodation.

There shall be a Ministry of Infrastructure and Accommodation with the

following functions:
i. To supervise and coordinate all activities pertaining to
accommodation services to MUSTSO members
ii. To advise MUSTSO government on all issues pertaining to housing,
repair/maintenance, electrical power, water services, etc.
iii. To assist in enforcing students’ accommodation rules and
regulations.

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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

iv. To advise and follow up maintenance and renovation of MUST

infrastructure (hostel blocks, playing grounds and classrooms).

19.10 Ministry of Students Loans.

There shall be a Ministry of Student Loans with the following functions:

i. To organize, coordinate and inform student on loans from Higher
Education Students Loans Board (HESLB) or other organs.
ii. To ensure that all students who are beneficiaries of Loans from
HESLB are registered for identification and follow up in case of any
setback
iii. To keep record of students that have received or not received loans
iv. To establish a communication network between the students’
representative and the Ministry to ensure that all issues of Loans
are communicated to the respective students
v. Solicit other sources of student loans in collaboration with the
University management
vi. To establish and maintain good relationship, channels of
communication and information flow between MUSTSO and
Higher Education Students Loans Board and Ministry of
Communication, Science and Technology.

ARTICLE 20
CEASATION FROM LEADERSHIP

20.1 A leader elected or appointed in accordance with the provisions of this

Constitution shall cease to hold office if;

i. He/she completes his studies;

ii. He/she is discontinued from studies on academic grounds or any
other reasons or suspended from the University
iii. He/she is removed from office by the organ or person who elected
or appointed him to that office;
iv. He/she is unable to discharge the functions of his/her office due
to physical or mental incapacity
v. He/she submits a written notice of resignation
vi. He/she dies
vii. A majority vote of no confidence is cast for the President, and the
Vice president

20.2 Any post which falls vacant shall be filled in accordance with the
provisions of this Constitution and procedures.

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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

ARTICLE 21
FINANCIAL PROVISIONS

21.1 The President and Vice President shall be responsible to the Students’
Baraza for the management of the funds and all assets and properties,
movable and immovable including the interest generated therein of
MUSTSO

21.2 The source of funds for MUSTSO shall be:-

i. Students Contributions (membership fees and subscriptions)

ii. Gifts
iii. Fund raising
iv. Donations
v. Any money appropriated by the University
vi. Such sums as may in any manner become payable to or vested in
MUSTSO

21.3 MUSTSO shall not be allowed to borrow money from outside the
University.

21.4 MUSTSO shall establish and maintain proper financial rules related to
the collection and disbursement of revenue

21.5 The MUSTSO Bank Account shall have two categories of Signatories as
follows:

Category A: Shall bear the following signatories;

i. MUSTSO Prime Minister
ii. MUSTSO Minister for Finance

Category B: Shall constitute the following;

i. Head of Students Government Judicatory and Control Services
ii. Director of Students Affairs

21.6 No withdraws shall be made from the Bank Account without the
signature of any one of the account bearers in category A and one of the
signatures in category B concurrently referred to in article 21.5 of this
Constitution after approval of the University management

21.7 The funds of MUSTSO shall be kept, recorded and maintained in

accordance with the statutory financial regulations and directives as
may be issued by the Students Representative Council from time to time

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ARTICLE 22
AUDIT

22.1 The accounts of MUSTSO shall be audited annually by a competent

auditor appointed by the University management

22.2 The accounts of MUSTSO shall be audited within and not later than the
third week of the beginning of every academic year.

22.3 The auditor’s report shall be submitted to the USRC for consideration
before it is submitted to the University Management through the Director
of Students Affairs.

22.4 The USRC may attach any comments on the auditors’ report and both
the comments and the auditor’s report shall first be forwarded to the
University Management before submitting them to the Students’ Baraza
for notification.

22.5 Without prejudice to the provisions of this constitution, the University

Management has absolute discretion to take disciplinary and or legal
action against any student leader (s) accused of embezzling MUSTSO
funds.

ARTICLE 23
CAPACITY TO CONTRACT

23.1 All contracts for and on behalf of MUSTSO shall be entered into by the
University Management which is capable of suing and being sued in its
own name.

ARTICLE 24
AMENDMENTS

24.1 This Constitution shall be amended by two thirds (2/3) of all members of
the University Students Representative Council. Members shall reach
consensus by voting at a USRC meeting for such purpose.

24.2 The proposed amendments shall be submitted to the Students’ Baraza

by the Students Representative Council after they have been discussed
and approved by the Students Representative Council

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24.3 The meeting of the Students’ Baraza to deliberate on the amendments

shall be convened in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution,
provided that the notice of such meeting and the proposed amendments
shall be communicated to the members by the Prime minister fourteen
(14) days prior to such meeting.

24.4 The amendment of the Constitution shall be approved and come into
effects after the approval by the Governing Council of the University.

24.5 Any gap or omission in this Constitution, not requiring the amendment
of the Constitution, shall be filled by decisions made by the Students
Representative Council for attaining the intended objective or purpose.

ARTICLE 25
RECOGNITION AND EXISTANCE OF MUSTSO BY UNIVERSITY COUNCIL

25.1 MUSTSO’s existence shall be recognized if its functions shall comply

with the following requirements;
i. MUSTSO written Constitution provides for functions of the
Cabinet, Students Representative Council and Judicial and
Disciplinary Affairs Committee
ii. MUSTSO does not engage in any activities which shall violate the
laws of the United Republic of Tanzania and MUST Rules &
Regulations
iii. MUSTSO abides to the University Rules and Regulations set by
competent Authority from time to time.

25.2 Where MUSTSO fails to abide by the Article 25.1 (i) to (iii), MUSTSO shall
be banned by the University Council.

25.3 The Council shall subject MUSTSO when found to have contravened the
conditions of their recognition to an immediate review of the
Constitution.

25.4 The Council shall issue any remedial instruction or direction and may
prescribe new conditions for recognition for the activities of MUSTSO
which are under review.

25.5 Where MUSTSO has been banned, the University Council shall put in
place interim arrangement for the coordination of Students Affairs.

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ARTICLE 26
DISSOLUTION

26.1 The existing government shall be dissolved in the fourth week, with
respect to the group admitted later, of the second semester of every
academic year for election purposes.

26.2 (i) MUSTSO government may be dissolved by a resolution passed to the

effect by two thirds (2/3) majority of all voting members of the
Students’ Baraza, provided that notice of the proposed intention to
dissolve MUSTSO government shall have been communicated to
members fourteen (14) days prior to the meeting called for the
purpose of the dissolution of MUSTSO government.

(ii) In the event of the dissolution of MUSTSO government, the net assets
of MUSTSO, after meeting all its liabilities in full, shall be held by the
Students Representative Council until such time as an association
with similar objectives is established and to which such net assets
shall be transferred

(iii) After dissolution of MUSTSO government, the government shall be

under the interim committee until the election is done.

ARTICLE 27
PORTRAITS OF PAST OFFICE BEARERS

27.1 A record and portraits of past office bearers of MUSTSO shall be kept in
respective MUSTSO office.

ARTICLE 28
OATH

28.1 There shall be an Oath of adherence to be taken by all MUSTSO leaders

before assuming their offices.
i. The following leaders:
(a) The President of MUSTSO;
(b) The Vice President of MUSTSO;
(c) The Chairperson of Judiciary;
(d) The Deputy Chairperson; and
(e) The Secretary of Judiciary

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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

shall take an Oath before assuming their offices, within five (5) days
after the election results have announced by the Electoral Committee.
ii. The Oaths of the leaders in Article 28.1(i), shall be public and
administered by a Commissioner of Oaths in the presence of the
University Legal Officer and the Director of Students Affairs
iii. The USRC members shall take an Oath before the Speaker of
USRC during its first meeting which shall be chaired by the
Electoral Committee until the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of
USRC is obtained.
iv. The Speaker and Deputy Speaker of USRC shall take an Oath
before the USRC members under the chairmanship of the
Commissioner of Oaths.
v. The Prime Minister after being confirmed by the USRC, Ministers,
Deputy Ministers and Secretaries shall take Oaths before the
MUSTSO President and Vice President.

28.2 The concerned persons shall be sworn-in as follow: -

“I (Name) I swear/ affirm in front of you that I shall work honestly
and diligently with the powers vested on me as (Title) by the
MUSTSO Constitution and regulations made there under in
executing my daily duties and I shall never act against the
guidelines provided to me by this Constitution. Help me God.

28.3 When taking an Oath the concerned person shall hold the MUSTSO
Constitution and either a Bible or Quran or any other holy book,
depending on his/her belief or otherwise.

ARTICLE 29
MORALS AND ETHICS OF MUSTSO

29.1 MUSTSO shall maintain the freedom of any Religious group provided
that they do not interfere with the main objectives of MUSTSO.
29.2 MUSTSO shall not allow any tribal group/association, racism or any
other association that may intend or result into tribal or racial
discrimination which may endanger unity/ peace and solidarity among
the members of the students’ community or the society at large.

29.3 MUSTSO members shall wear decent clothes as stipulated in the

Students’ By-Laws 2014

29.4 MUSTSO members shall obey all University’s regulations and rules as
promulgated from time to time.

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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

29.5 MUSTSO members shall refrain from any political activism and
associated activities within the campus.

29.6 No member or group of members shall use the name of MUSTSO in any
activity or engagement without the prior written consent of the existing
President of MUSTSO.

ARTICLE 30
BY-ELECTIONS

30.1 There shall be by-elections which shall be conducted to fill in vacant

positions. The by-elections shall be administered by the office of the
Speaker of USRC.

30.2 The by-elections shall be conducted at,

i. The beginning of every academic year, for the first year to elect the
class representatives; and
ii. Any time due to death, resignation, termination or nullification of
election results, discontinuation from studies of the representative.

30.3 The office of the Speaker of USRC shall conduct by-elections for vacant
positions under article 30.2(i) at the beginning of the first or second
semester of every academic year or as the case may be.

ARTICLE 31
MISCELLANEOUS

31.1 MUSTSO in Collaboration with the Director of Students Affairs, shall

have powers to:
i. Prepare the Constitution of the organization
ii. Prepare the election rules
iii. Prepare Financial Regulations
iv. Prepare rules governing peer support services
v. Organize and implement outreach programmes

31.2 Without prejudice to Article 6 of this Constitution, MUSTSO in

collaboration with the Director of Students Affairs shall;
i. Set up a Code of Conducts for students within the students’
community
ii. Set up mechanisms for enforcement of the Code of Conduct
iii. Set up procedures for taking complaints from aggrieved students

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 Mbeya University of Science and Technology Students’ Organization (MUSTSO)

31.3 The Director of Students Affairs shall be the Administrative Head of the
Students’ Affairs

31.4 The Director of Students Affairs may after every three years instruct
MUSTSO to review its Constitution

31.5 MUSTSO external affiliation to other organization(s)

i. MUSTSO may affiliate or be affiliated to an external
Organization(s).
ii. The decision to affiliate or be affiliated shall first be approved by
the University Council and be published to the student
community.
iii. The Director of students Affairs shall set down procedures to be
approved by the Council for reviewing affiliation to or of external
organization(s)

31.6 Wherever there are deficiencies in the Constitution the University

Council shall subject MUSTSO to review of the Constitution.

APPROVAL

According to the 9th Council meeting of Mbeya University of Science and

Technology (MUST) held on 27th April 2017 item 6.2; this MUSTSO
Constitution 2017 has been read and approved.

Prof. Penina Mlama Ms. Saumu Mruke

MUST COUNCIL CHAIRPERSON COUNCIL SECRETARY

Signature.................................... Signature...................

Date........................................... Date............................

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