Member Terms and Policies

Please review our Photo Consent Policy and data handling policies

Data Handling and Privacy Policy
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1. Scope of This Policy

This policy applies to:

  • All personal data collected from members via the Christian Union website, forms, emails, events, and digital tools.
  • Data shared voluntarily by members during registration, participation in events, communication with the Christian Union, or while using member-exclusive services.
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2. What Data We Collect

We may collect the following categories of personal data from our members:

a) Identification Information

  • Full name
  • Gender (optional)

b) Contact Information

  • Email address
  • Phone number

c) Membership Information

  • Membership ID or registration number
  • Date of registration
  • Membership type and status
  • Roles held in the Christian Union

d) Academic/Professional Details

  • School, institution
  • Program of study

e) Media Content

  • Group or event photos
  • Video content (e.g., recordings of webinars or events)

g) Other Voluntary Information

  • Feedback or survey responses
  • Messages or inquiries
  • Uploaded documents (e.g. photos)
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3. How We Use Your Data

We use member data for the following legitimate purposes:

  • To register, verify, and manage memberships
  • To communicate Christian Union updates, events, and announcements
  • To share event invites, newsletters, and surveys
  • To display member contributions or achievements (with consent)
  • To create directories, attendance lists, or certificates
  • To respond to inquiries or support requests
  • To personalize user experience on the website
  • To improve our services and digital platforms
  • To fulfill legal or regulatory obligations
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4. Legal Basis for Processing Data

Our data handling practices are guided by the following lawful bases:

  • Consent: You have voluntarily agreed to our use of your personal data for specific purposes.
  • Legitimate Interests: We may process your data in ways necessary for the functioning and growth of the Christian Union, provided your privacy rights are not harmed.
  • Legal Obligation: We may be required to retain or disclose data by law.
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5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or trade your data. Data may be shared only in the following circumstances:

  • With authorized internal staff and volunteers for administrative purposes
  • With trusted third-party service providers (e.g., web hosts, email platforms), under strict confidentiality agreements
  • With event partners or collaborators, only with prior consent
  • When required by law, subpoena, or legal process
  • With your explicit permission for public recognition or publication
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6. Use of Photos and Media

Member photos and videos taken during events or submitted for use may be published on:

  • The official website
  • Social media platforms
  • Newsletters, brochures, or Cu Posters

You may opt out at any time as described in the Photo Consent Policy section.

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7. Data Storage and Security Measures

We take data protection seriously and use appropriate technical safeguards, including:

  • Secure password-protected systems
  • Encrypted data transmissions (SSL/TLS)
  • Access control for sensitive files
  • Minimization of data access to only what is necessary

Despite our efforts, no system is 100% secure, and we encourage you to contact us if you believe your data has been compromised.

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8. Data Retention Policy

We retain personal data for associates and registered members only as long as:

  • You maintain your registered membership status with the Christian Union
  • Your associate account remains active in our system
  • It is needed for legitimate Christian Union purposes related to your membership
  • It is required by law or policy (e.g., financial or audit records)

After your membership, your data will be securely stored in our system as an associate.

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9. Your Data Rights

As a member, you have the right to:

  • Access your personal data
  • Correct or update inaccurate or outdated information
  • Withdraw consent at any time
  • Request deletion of your data ("right to be forgotten")
  • Request a copy of your data ("data portability")
  • Restrict or object to specific types of processing
  • Complain to a data protection authority if you believe your rights have been violated

To exercise any of these rights, contact us using the details provided in the Contact Information section.

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10. Cookies and Tracking

Our website may use cookies or similar technologies to improve your experience. Cookies help us:

  • Recognize returning visitors
  • Analyze website traffic and usage
  • Improve performance and personalization

You can manage or disable cookies in your browser settings.

Photo Consent Policy
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1. Use of Photos

As part of our efforts to showcase and celebrate the activities, achievements, and community spirit of our Christian Union, we may use photos of members in the following ways:

  • Posts, stories, and highlights on our official social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.)
  • Galleries, banners, or feature articles on our official website
  • Promotional materials such as newsletters, event posters, or annual reports (digital and printed)
  • Media presentations or recaps of events for internal and external sharing

These photos help us promote engagement, document memories, and represent the vibrant life of our Christian Union.

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2. Implied Consent Upon Membership

By choosing to become a member and by participating in MUST CU-related activities and events, you grant implied consent for your photograph or video image to be taken and used for the purposes listed above.

This means that during events, meetings, or activities, official photographers or social media team members may capture moments that include your image, and those images may be published without requiring individual permission each time.

However, we do this with full respect for your dignity and privacy (see point 3 and 4).

3. Respect and Integrity

We are committed to using photos in a way that reflects our core values of respect, inclusion, and professionalism:

  • We will only publish images that are respectful, appropriate, and aligned with the context of the event or activity.
  • We will not use any photo in a manner that could be considered offensive, embarrassing, or misleading to the individuals featured.
  • Photos will not be manipulated or used in any way that changes the original intent or misrepresents the subject.
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4. Opt-Out Option

We fully understand and respect that not all members may wish to have their photos used. If you would prefer not to be included in any photographs or publications, you can opt out at any time by:

  • Informing us in writing or by email

Upon receiving your request, we will:

  • Refrain from using existing images where you are clearly identifiable
  • Remove or blur your image from published content if possible

We will always do our best to honor your request promptly and respectfully.

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5. Privacy and Data Protection

  • We will not share or publish personal or sensitive information (e.g., phone number, student ID, address) alongside your photo without your explicit consent.
  • Group photos taken in our Christian Union events may be used, but we will still honor requests for removal or non-use of individual images.
  • Photos will be stored securely and only accessed by authorized individuals responsible for communications and media.
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6. Policy Updates

This policy may be reviewed and updated from time to time to reflect changes in technology, legal requirements, or Christian Union practices. Members will be notified of significant updates, and your continued participation will be understood as acceptance of the updated terms unless you explicitly opt out.

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7. Contact Information

For questions, concerns, or requests related to your data or to opt out of photo usage, please contact us:

Meru University Christian Union
Data Protection Officer
Email: info@mustcu.or.ke
Phone: +254 795 398942