Our Constitution

Read the constitution of the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network. Understand the guiding principles, bylaws, and organizational structure that govern our commitment to promoting safety and empowering youth in radiation protection and nuclear safety. Click here to download a pdf copy.

  • PREAMBLE

    We, the youth of Kenya, recognizing the importance of radiation protection and its impact on public health and safety, hereby establish the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN), on August 2023 around Kenyatta University, Nairobi Kenya.

    We, the members of the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN) in Kenya, hereby establish this Constitution to provide a framework for the governance, management, and operation of the group. Our mission is to promote radiation safety, security, protection, and awareness among the public, professionals, and stakeholders in Kenya.

    Recognizing the importance of radiation safety and its impact on human health and the environment, we seek to create a platform for young professionals and students interested in this field to come together, share knowledge, and contribute to the advancement of radiation protection practices in Kenya.

    As a group, we are committed to fostering a culture of safety and responsibility in the use of radiation technologies across various sectors such as healthcare, industry, research, and nuclear power and other sectors. We believe that by empowering the youth with knowledge and skills in radiation protection, we can contribute to a safer and more sustainable future for our nation.

    This constitution outlines the jurisdiction, mandate, objectives, membership, leadership and leadership structure, succession, collaboration, and dissolution of the group.

  • a) The KYRP operates within the jurisdiction of the Republic of Kenya. It adheres to all applicable laws and regulations governing community-based organizations and radiation protection activities in the country.

    b) In Kenya, the legal framework for the registration of a community-based organization is provided under the Community Groups Registration Act NO. 30 of 2022, Chapter 108A of the Laws of Kenya. This Act governs the formation, registration, and operation of CBOs in Kenya. To register the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN), it is necessary to comply with the provisions of this Act.

    c) According to the Act mentioned in b) above, applicants must submit minutes of the meeting seeking registration and showing elected officials, a list of all members duly signed with name, position, mobile number, and signatures. Additionally, they must attach a group constitution and pay the approved registration fee of Ksh 5000.

  • The general mandate of the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN) is to promote awareness, education, and engagement among Kenyan youth in matters related to radiation protection. The group aims to foster a culture of safety and responsible use of radiation sources for the benefit of society. Specifically:

    The mandate of the RPNS-YN shall be to:

    a) Provide expert advice and guidance on radiation protection and safety to the government, industries, and the public.
    b) Promote awareness and education on radiation safety and protection among the public and professionals.
    c) Facilitate the development and implementation of radiation protection policies, standards, and regulations in Kenya.
    d) Advocate for the adoption of best practices in radiation protection and safety in Kenya.
    e) Provide a platform for the exchange of information and ideas on radiation protection and safety.
  • A. General Objectives

    3.1 Personal Objectives

    a) Health and Safety: One of the primary personal objectives for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN) is to ensure their own health and safety. By understanding the principles of radiation protection and adopting safe practices, they aim to minimize their exposure to radiation and prevent any potential health risks associated with it.

    b) Knowledge and Awareness: Kenyan youth may also have a personal objective of gaining knowledge and raising awareness about radiation protection. They may strive to educate themselves about the sources of radiation, its effects on human health, and the measures that can be taken to mitigate those effects. This objective can help them make informed decisions regarding their own safety and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

    c) Personal Development: Another personal objective for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN) is personal development. By actively engaging in this field, they can enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. They may also aim to develop leadership qualities and improve their ability to work effectively as part of a team.

    3.2 Professional Objectives

    a) Career Opportunities: Many Kenyan youth may have a professional objective of pursuing a career in radiation protection. They may aspire to become radiation safety officers, health physicists, or other professionals involved in ensuring the safe use of radiation in various industries such as healthcare, research, or nuclear power generation.

    b) Continuous Learning: Professional growth and continuous learning are important objectives for Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN). They may aim to acquire advanced qualifications, such as certifications or postgraduate degrees, to expand their knowledge and expertise in this field. Additionally, they may seek opportunities for professional development through attending conferences, workshops, and seminars related to radiation protection.

    c) Research and Innovation: Some Kenyan youth may have a professional objective of contributing to research and innovation in radiation protection. They may aspire to conduct studies or develop new technologies and techniques that improve radiation safety measures. By pushing the boundaries of knowledge in this field, they can contribute to advancements in radiation protection practices and make a positive impact on society.

    3.3 Societal Objectives

    a) Public Health: Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN) may have a societal objective of promoting public health. They may aim to raise awareness among the general public about the potential risks associated with radiation exposure and advocate for the implementation of effective safety measures. By doing so, they can help protect the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

    b) Environmental Protection: Another societal objective for Protection And Nuclear Safety Youth Network (RPNS-YN) is environmental protection. They may strive to ensure that radiation sources are used responsibly and that proper waste management practices are followed to prevent environmental contamination. By promoting sustainable practices, they can contribute to the preservation of ecosystems and natural resources.

    c) Policy Advocacy: Kenyan youth may also have a societal objective of advocating for policies and regulations related to radiation protection. They may aim to influence decision-makers at various levels, including government bodies and regulatory agencies, to develop and enforce robust guidelines for the safe use of radiation. This objective can help create a regulatory framework that ensures the well-being of both individuals and society as a whole.

    B. Specific Objectives

    a) To raise awareness about the potential risks associated with radiation exposure and promote safe practices among youth.

    b) To provide educational opportunities for youth interested in pursuing careers in radiation protection.

    c) To advocate for policies that prioritize radiation safety and protection in various sectors.

    d) To collaborate with national and international organizations working in the field of radiation protection.

    e) To facilitate networking and knowledge sharing among youth interested in radiation protection.

    f) Promote radiation safety and protection among the public and professionals in Kenya.

    g) Advance the understanding and application of radiation protection principles and practices in Kenya.

    h) Foster collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders in radiation protection and safety in Kenya.

    i) Promote the development and use of innovative technologies in radiation protection and safety in Kenya.

    C. VALUES

    i. Safety: prioritize safety and wellbeing of individuals.

    ii. Transparency: committing to open to communication and honesty.

    iii. community empowerment: empower local communities by providing knowhow skills and resources to promote radiation protection and nuclear safety.

    iv. inclusivity: ensuring participation of members and community without discrimination.

    v. environmental stewardship: advocate for sustainable practices and policies that minimize environmental impact of nuclear activities and promote conservation of natural resources.

    vi. Collaboration: fostering partnership and collaborations with governmental agencies, academic institutions, NGOs and other stakeholders to leverage collective expertise and resources for effective radiation protection efforts.

    vii. Adaptability: remaining flexible and adaptive to changing circumstances, emerging technologies and evolving scientific understanding of radiation related risks.

    D.ACTIVITIES

    i. Training programmes

    ii. Advocacy

    iii. Education and outreach

    iv. Monitoring and evaluation

    v. Research and innovation

    vi. Community engagement

  • 4.1 Eligibility

    a) Membership in RPNS-YN is open to all Kenyan youth aged between 18 and 35 years who have an interest in radiation protection.

    b) The group shall enact regulation defining criteria of membership eligibility

    4.2 Application

    a) Prospective members shall complete a membership application form provided by RPNS-YN and pay subscription fees therein.

    b) The group shall enact the prescription of details to be filled in the membership application form.

    4.3 Rights and Responsibilities

    Members have the rights and responsibilities as follows:

    - Shall contribute expertise.
    - Shall collaborate and comply.
    - Shall stay informed and participate actively.
    - Shall help in advocacy and good name selling.
    - Shall provide feedback and suggestions.
    - Shall assist in retention, recruitment, project involvement, networking, education

    outreach and professional conduct.

    4.4 MEMBERSHIP DISSOLUTION

    Membership can be terminated if:

    - A member becomes dormant for about three consecutive years
    - A member goes against the rules enforced and\or the constitution
    - A member tarnishes the image of the group with a negative motive.
    - A member willingly decides to leave

    4.5 MEMBERSHIP BY ASSOCIATION AND AFFILIATON

    Membership by association and affiliation is allowed after payment of the required membership fees and evaluate executive committee.

    4.6 FUNDING

    The source of funding would be from contributions, donations, grants, funds-raisers, subscription fees and any other appropriate source.

    4.7 UTILIZATION OF FUNDS

    All the network fund shall be used to the interest of the network. The treasurer is responsible for the transactions and shall work closely with the executive members.

  • 5.1 Executive Committee

    KYRP shall have an Executive Committee responsible for the overall management and decision-making of the group.

    5.2 Composition

    The Executive Committee shall consist of a Patron, Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary General, Secretary, Treasurer, coordinator and other positions as deemed necessary.

    5.3 Election

    The Executive Committee members shall be elected by the general membership through a democratic process held every two years. The executive committee shall appoint a patron to serve a period of two years.

    5.4 Duties and Responsibilities

    a) The Patron

    - Shall support in organization and long-term commitments.
    - Shall support in advocacy.
    - Shall assist in collaborations.
    - Shall assist in public relations.
    - Shall assist in monitoring progress.
    - Shall help in finances where necessary.

    b) The Chairperson

    - Shall help in strategic planning
    - Shall be reliable in decision making and board relations
    - Shall support in representation of the network.
    - Shall help in resource management and advocacy
    - Shall help in communication and collaborations.
    - Shall be found in the committee responsible for succession planning.
    - Shall help in problem solving

    c) The vice Chairperson

    - Shall support the Chairperson and undertake his duties in his\her absence with their instructions
    - Shall be responsible of strategic planning and partnerships
    - Shall help in emergency preparedness and continuous improvement

    d) The Secretary General

    - Shall handle administrative tasks.
    - Shall help in membership records and general record keeping.
    - Help in meeting coordination, minutes-taking, notices and announcements.
    - Shall handle official correspondence on behalf of the network.
    - Documentation of policies and procedures.
    - Coordination of elections and legal compliance.
    - Shall support the president and the vice president.
    - Shall help in crisis management

    e) The Secretary

    - Shall help in minutes taking
    - Shall liaise with the secretary general and help in his\her absentia.
    - Shall help in board relations and record keeping.
    - Shall help the secretary general.

    f) The Treasurer

    - Shall manage financial matters.
    - Shall do book-keeping and financial reporting.
    - Shall help in budget development, financial planning and decision making.
    - Shall help in banking, transactions and audit preparations.
    - Shall motivate others to give and manage risks.
    - Shall be responsible of tax compliance and collaboration with the board.

    g) The coordinator

    - Shall do events and team coordination and volunteer management.
    - Shall be responsible for communications and project management.
    - Shall work closely with the secretary general for active member’s engagement.
    - Shall help in logistics management.

    h) The executive committee shall act as the disciplinary committee and allow associates to help where necessary in problem solving.

    i) Any other duty shall be enacted by the group general assembly.

    5.5 Meetings

    The Executive Committee shall meet regularly to discuss and plan activities, make decisions, and report to the general membership.

    5.6 Tenure of office bearers

    All office bearers will serve two years and might be eligible for re-election upon decision by members.

  • In the event of a vacancy in any position within the Executive Committee, a by-election shall be conducted to fill the position for the remainder of its term. The by-election process shall be determined by the Executive Committee.

    a) Eligibility Criteria

    To be eligible for election as a group executive member, individuals must meet certain criteria.

    i. Patron and treasurer should be at least 18 years old with no upper age-limit

    ii. Other executive members should be young professionals within a specified age range 18 – 35 years,

    iii. All executive members should have relevant qualifications or experience in radiation protection.

    iv. Be willing to learn and gain expertise in radiation protection.

    v. Any other regulation that shall be enacted by the group in the general assembly

    b) Nomination Process

    The nomination process is an essential step in the election of group executive members.

    i. It allows eligible individuals to put themselves forward as candidates for the position.

    ii. The process shall involve submitting a nomination form or application, which includes personal details, qualifications, and a statement outlining their vision and goals if elected.

    c) Campaigning

    i. Once nominations have been received and verified, candidates are allowed to campaign for their candidacy.

    ii. This may involve organizing meetings, debates, or other events where candidates can present their ideas and engage with potential voters.

    iii. Campaigning should be conducted in a fair and respectful manner, adhering to any guidelines set by the group.

    d) Voting Process

    i. The voting process is crucial to ensure a democratic election.

    ii. It shall be conducted in a transparent and secure manner to maintain the integrity of the election.

    iii. The voting process should allow all eligible members to cast their votes confidentially.

    e) Counting and Verification

    i. After the voting period ends, the votes are counted and verified by an independent board responsible for overseeing the election process.

    ii. This ensures that the results are accurate and free from any manipulation or bias.

    iii. The counting and verification process should be conducted in a transparent manner, allowing candidates or their representatives to observe if desired.

    f) Declaration of Results

    i. Once the counting and verification process is complete, the results are declared publicly.

    ii. The board shall typically announce the names of the elected group executive members, along with the vote count received by each candidate. This promotes transparency and allows members to have confidence in the out

  • i. RPNS-YN recognizes the importance of collaboration with other organizations working in radiation protection.

    ii. The group shall actively seek partnerships and collaborations with national and international entities to enhance its objectives and activities.

  • This constitution shall be subjected to amendments by the group general assembly

  • 9.1 Dissolution Process

    In the event that RPNS-YN decides to dissolve, a resolution must be passed by at least two-thirds majority vote of the general membership during a specially convened meeting.

    9.2 Indemnity

    All the decisions made by elected leaders/members and their impact will be distributed to general membership but may undergo legal procedures when critical.

    9.3 Asset Distribution

    Upon dissolution, any remaining assets or funds of RPNS-YN shall be distributed to another registered youth organization with similar objectives as determined by the general membership.

  • All members agreed to follow the constitution and amended their signatures as shown below.