Statutes

Signed in Geneva, Switzerland
March 18, 2026

STATUTES OF THE INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CONSORTIUM
(English Version)

PREAMBLE

WE, THE FOUNDERS,
REALIZING the fundamental transformations of the global economy and society associated with the transition to «Society 5.0», in which digitalization, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology play a central role in sustainable societal development;
RECOGNIZING that traditional models of higher education and scientific research, when insufficiently integrated with the real economy, require substantial transformation toward the new paradigm, based on principles of personalization, practice-oriented learning, and continuous innovation;
ACKNOWLEDGING the need to establish independent and transnational institutions for quality assurance, accreditation, and the recognition of qualifications, operating in accordance with internationally recognized standards and best practices;
STRIVING to create a flexible global ecosystem capable of integrating academic knowledge, technological entrepreneurship, and capital to address major global challenges;
HEREBY ESTABLISH a non-profit organization in the form of an association (Verein), hereinafter referred to as the «Consortium», and adopt these Statutes as the primary governing document regulating its activities.

SECTION I. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Name
1.1. The full official name of the organization is:
– in English: International Science and Technology Consortium;
– in German: Internationales Wissenschafts- und Technologiekonsortium;
– in French: Consortium International pour la Science et la Technologie.
1.2. The abbreviated name of the organization is «Sci&Tech Consortium». The short name «Sci&Tech» may be used for branding and communication purposes.
1.3. The name of the organization, its abbreviations, and its logo constitute intellectual property of the Consortium. Their use is permitted exclusively to members of the Consortium and only in accordance with the rules and guidelines established by the Executive Board.

Article 2. Legal Form and Jurisdiction
2.1. The Consortium is established as an Association (Association / Verein) in accordance with Articles 60 et seq. of the Swiss Civil Code (ZGB).
2.2. The Consortium has legal personality and full legal capacity. It may acquire rights and incur obligations in its own name and may sue and be sued before courts, arbitral tribunals, and other competent authorities.
2.3. The Consortium is not liable for the obligations of its members. The members of the Consortium shall not be personally liable for the obligations of the Consortium; liability is limited to the assets of the Consortium, unless otherwise expressly provided in these Statutes.

Article 3. Seat (Location)
3.1. The legal seat of the Consortium is Geneva, Canton of Geneva, Switzerland. The correspondence and administrative address of the Consortium shall be determined by the Executive Board.
3.2. The Executive Board may change the administrative address of the Consortium within the Swiss Confederation without amending these Statutes. Any change of the legal seat shall require an amendment to these Statutes.
3.3. The Consortium may establish branches, representative offices, Regional Hubs, and other organizational units in Switzerland and abroad. It may also participate in or establish separate legal entities in accordance with applicable local legislation.

Article 4. Head Organization
4.1. In recognition of its role as the initiating institution and strategic partner of the Consortium, International Science and Technology University (ISTU, Poland) is designated in these Statutes as the Head Organization.
4.2. The Head Organization holds a permanent special role within the governance structure of the Consortium, as defined in these Statutes. This role may be modified only by an amendment to the Statutes adopted in accordance with the applicable procedures.
4.3. The Head Organization exercises specific supervisory and strategic rights within the Consortium. Notwithstanding other provisions, the Head Organization holds a right of veto exclusively regarding the ‘Reserved Matters’ expressly defined in Article 26 of these Statutes.

Article 5. Duration and Fundamental Documents
5.1. The Consortium is established for an indefinite period.
5.2. The operational and moral framework of the Consortium is supplemented by:
• The General Charter, which serves as the ideological foundation of the Consortium, defining its core values, philosophy, and strategic vision;
• The Code of Ethics, which establishes the ethical standards, rules of conduct, and integrity principles binding upon all Members.

SECTION II. DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of these Statutes, the following terms shall have the meanings set out below:
• DeepTech: Technologies based on significant scientific research and advanced engineering solutions, including, inter alia, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, genomics, and robotics, typically characterized by extended research and development cycles.
• EdTech: The collection of digital tools, platforms, and methodologies, including learning management systems (LMS), virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), gamification, and AI-based tutoring solutions, used to support and enhance educational processes and personalization of learning.
• University 5.0: A conceptual model of a future-oriented university that integrates physical and digital learning environments, applies advanced digital technologies for personalized education, and emphasizes societal value creation through innovation.
• Dual Education: A form of education combining theoretical instruction provided by an educational institution with practical training conducted at a workplace within a partner organization.
• Micro-credentials: Digitally documented attestations confirming the acquisition of defined learning outcomes, skills, or competencies, which may be accumulated or combined in accordance with applicable educational frameworks.
• Spin-off: A separate legal entity established for the purpose of commercializing intellectual property, research results, or technologies developed within the framework of the Consortium.
• ISTC (International Science and Technology Credits): An internal credit unit system of the Consortium designed to facilitate the documentation, conversion, and internal recognition of learning achievements across different educational frameworks and jurisdictions.

SECTION III. OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Article 6. Mission
The mission of the Consortium is to develop and support a global, decentralized framework facilitating cooperation between science, education, and high-technology business, with the aim of fostering innovation, technological advancement, and societal benefit.

Article 7. Main Objectives
7.1. Institutional: To bring together leading universities, research centers, and technology-oriented organizations into a collaborative network for the sharing of resources, information, and expertise.
7.2. Scientific: To promote and facilitate fundamental and applied research in the field of DeepTech.
7.3. Educational: To implement, support, and scale models of practice-oriented education and the use of EdTech solutions.
7.4. Normative: To develop, recommend, and disseminate international standards and guidelines for education quality, research ethics, and professional qualifications.

Article 8. Subject of Activity
To achieve its objectives, the Consortium may carry out activities of an educational, scientific, technological, or advisory nature, including, without limitation:
8.1. Promoting collaboration, information exchange, and best practices among educational and research institutions and technology organizations.
8.2. Developing, supporting, and disseminating educational and research programs, projects, and initiatives.
8.3. Facilitating cooperation and coordination concerning qualifications, learning outcomes, and professional development within the Consortium’s network.
8.4. Developing and offering educational and training programs within the Consortium, including the issuance of internal certificates, micro-credentials, or other forms of acknowledgment of learning achievements.
8.5. Organizing events, workshops, conferences, and other forums to share knowledge and foster collaboration.
8.6. Publishing, documenting, and communicating research findings, reports, or other educational materials.
8.7. Supporting or participating in research and development, innovation projects, and technological initiatives.
8.8. Managing funds, grants, and other resources in support of the Consortium’s objectives.
8.9. Providing advisory, consulting, or guidance services in the fields of education, science, and technology.
8.10. Carrying out any other lawful activities that are consistent with the objectives of the Consortium.

SECTION IV. MEMBERSHIP

Article 9. Categories of Membership
9.1. Founding Members: Legal entities that signed the General Charter of the Consortium. They are entitled to voting rights and may nominate candidates to the Executive Board, subject to the provisions of these Statutes.
9.2. Full Members: Universities, research institutes, and companies that have been accepted into the Consortium through an internal review process. They are entitled to voting rights at the General Assembly in accordance with these Statutes.
9.3. Associate Members: Organizations participating in specific projects or initiatives of the Consortium. They do not have voting rights on strategic matters.
9.4. Honorary Fellows: Individuals who have made a significant contribution to the development of science or education or the Consortium. They hold this status for an indefinite term, subject to revocation by the General Assembly.

Article 10. Admission Procedure
10.1. A candidate submits a written application to the Secretariat.
10.2. The Executive Board conducts an internal review of the candidate in accordance with the ethical, quality, and participation standards established by the Consortium.
10.3. The Executive Board decides on admission by a simple majority of votes. Admission takes effect once certified internally in accordance with the procedures of the Consortium, including any oversight role assigned to the Head Organization within the governance framework.
10.4. Membership is confirmed by an internal certificate of the form established by the Consortium.

Article 11. Rights and Obligations of Members
11.1. Members may:
• Participate in the management of the Consortium through the General Assembly.
• Have access to Consortium resources, databases, research materials, and partnership programs, subject to the policies and availability determined by the Executive Board.
• Use the brand «Member of Sci&Tech Consortium» for communication or marketing purposes, in accordance with rules established by the Executive Board.
• Propose the creation of new working groups, projects, or collaborative initiatives within the Consortium.
11.2. Members are expected to:
• Comply with the provisions of these Statutes, the General Charter, and the Code of Ethics.
• Pay any entrance or membership fees as established by the Executive Board or General Assembly.
• Provide information as reasonably requested for internal reporting, monitoring, or collaborative purposes.
• Act in a manner consistent with the reputation, objectives, and values of the Consortium.

Article 12. Termination of Membership
12.1. Membership may be terminated in the following cases:
• Voluntary withdrawal, with written notice submitted to the Secretariat at least six (6) months in advance.
• Dissolution or liquidation of a legal entity that is a member of the Consortium.
• Expulsion, in accordance with procedures established by the Statutes and internal regulations, upon recommendation of the Executive Board and confirmation by the General Assembly.
12.2. Grounds for expulsion may include, without limitation:
• Failure to comply with the provisions of these Statutes or the Consortium’s Code of Ethics.
• Non-payment of any applicable entrance or membership fees.
• Conduct that is materially inconsistent with the objectives, values, or reputation of the Consortium.
Expulsion shall be carried out in accordance with the procedures established by these Statutes and internal regulations, and upon confirmation by the General Assembly.

SECTION V. ECOSYSTEM AND STRUCTURAL EXPANSION

Article 13. General Expansion Clause
13.1. To respond flexibly to global challenges and support the objectives of the Consortium, the Consortium may establish, create, support, sponsor, or participate in various organizational structures, in accordance with these Statutes and applicable law.
13.2. Types of Structures:
Under the aegis of the Consortium, the following may be established, among others:
• Centers: For coordinating projects, programs, or research initiatives.
• Councils: For expert, advisory, or representative purposes.
• Committees and Commissions: For addressing specialized tasks.
• Observatories and Labs: For monitoring, experimentation, or data collection.
• Technoparks, Accelerators, and Incubators: For supporting startups and innovation projects.
• Clubs and Associations: For fostering communities and collaboration.
13.3. Establishment Procedure:
Organizational structures may be created by decision of the Executive Board. The Executive Board approves internal regulations (Bylaws) for each structure, appoints its head, and determines the operational framework and budget.
13.4. Status:
Structures established under the Consortium may act as internal units without forming separate legal entities, or may be registered as independent legal entities in any jurisdiction, in compliance with applicable law.

Article 14. Specialized Bodies
14.1. Research Institutes
The Consortium may establish or support a network of scientific organizations for the purpose of conducting research, fostering innovation, and promoting collaboration with industry.
14.2. Advisory and Coordination Bodies
The Consortium may establish advisory, coordination, or expert bodies to support its objectives in quality assurance, program evaluation, and recognition of educational or professional achievements within its internal framework.
Such bodies provide guidance, recommendations, and support to Consortium members, contributing to coordination, quality enhancement, and the development of professional and institutional initiatives.

SECTION VI. MODEL, RECOGNITION AND TECHNOLOGIES

Article 15. Internal Standards and Mutual Recognition
15.1. Practice-Oriented Learning:
Educational programs offered or supported within the Consortium may include practical, work-based training at partner or affiliated facilities, as determined by each member institution.
15.2. Project-Based Learning (PBL):
Student assessment may be conducted primarily through the evaluation of projects or practical assignments, reflecting applied skills and learning outcomes.
15.3. Internal Recognition:
Consortium members may agree on procedures for the mutual recognition of study periods, learning achievements, and internal qualifications. Such recognition is based on the institutional autonomy of participating members and applicable international conventions, and is intended to supplement, not to replace, national accreditation systems.

Article 16. Internal Credit System and Academic Mobility
16.1. The Consortium may use an internal credit transfer system (ISTC) to facilitate learning mobility and comparability between participating institutions.
16.2. The ISTC system may be aligned with widely used credit frameworks, such as ECTS or Carnegie Units, for reference purposes.
16.3. Academic results or learning records may be stored in a secure internal or distributed database accessible to Consortium members for informational and coordination purposes.

Article 17. Internal Professional and Honorary Recognition
17.1. The Consortium may introduce internal recognition or honorary titles to acknowledge contributions to applied projects, innovation, or collaboration within the Consortium network.
17.2. Such titles, awards, or acknowledgments do not constitute governmental accreditations or academic degrees.

Article 18. Digital Transformation and AI
18.1. The Consortium may develop and maintain a digital platform to support educational, research, and collaborative activities.
18.2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital tools may be employed to enhance personalization of learning, tutoring, and administration within the Consortium.
18.3. Internal records of learning achievements or recognitions may be maintained using digital or distributed ledger technologies for the purposes of internal security, traceability, and archival.

Article 19. Innovation and Entrepreneurship
19.1. Students may be encouraged to present practical projects, prototypes, or startup initiatives as part of their learning outcomes.
19.2. The Consortium may provide infrastructure, mentorship, and advisory support to members undertaking innovation or entrepreneurial activities within its network.

SECTION VII. GOVERNANCE

Article 20. General Assembly
The General Assembly serves as the principal decision-making forum of the Consortium, providing a platform for members to discuss activities, review reports, and make decisions on matters defined by these Statutes.
20.1. The General Assembly consists of all members of the Consortium.
20.2. It is convened at least once per year, or more frequently if deemed necessary by the Executive Board or upon request of members in accordance with internal procedures.
20.3. The competence of the General Assembly includes:
• Approving the annual report of the President.
• Discussing and adopting recommendations on the Consortium’s strategic directions.
• Electing representatives of Full Members to the Executive Board in accordance with the provisions set out in these Statutes.
20.4. Decisions are made by a simple majority of votes of members present, unless otherwise specified by these Statutes or internal regulations.

Article 21. Executive Board
The Executive Board serves as the permanent collegiate body responsible for the internal management and administration of the Consortium in accordance with these Statutes.
21.1. The Executive Board is the permanent executive body of the Consortium.
21.2. The composition of the Executive Board is determined in accordance with the internal governance framework, including the participation or nomination rights of the Head Organization, as defined in these Statutes. Members serve for a term of four (4) years, with the possibility of reappointment.
21.3. The Executive Board’s responsibilities include, within the scope of internal governance:
• Approving the Consortium’s budget and financial plan.
• Overseeing internal procedures related to the admission or voluntary withdrawal of members.
• Establishing, managing, and dissolving specialized structures in accordance with Article 13 and internal regulations.
• Appointing heads of internal organizational units, institutes, or advisory bodies.
• Approving internal regulations, policies, and guidelines for the functioning of the Consortium.

Article 22. President
The President serves as the principal coordinator of internal governance and operations of the Consortium, ensuring proper conduct of meetings and implementation of decisions, within the internal framework of these Statutes.
22.1. The President of the Consortium shall be elected by the General Assembly from among the representatives of Full Members for a term of four (4) years.
22.2. The President presides over meetings of the Executive Board and the General Assembly and provides guidance for internal management and coordination of Consortium activities.
22.3. In the event of a tie during voting within the Executive Board, the President may exercise a casting vote for internal decision-making purposes only.

Article 23. Scientific and Technological Council
The Scientific and Technological Council serves as an advisory body to provide guidance and recommendations on research, innovation, and collaboration with industry and technology partners, supporting the Consortium’s internal strategy and initiatives.
23.1. The Council is composed of representatives from member institutions, partner organizations, and other relevant experts in scientific and technological fields.
23.2. The Council provides advice on aligning the Consortium’s activities with developments in research, technology, and industry trends.

Article 24. Secretariat
The Secretariat provides administrative, organizational, and documentary support for the internal activities of the Consortium in accordance with these Statutes.
24.1. The Secretariat is headed by the Secretary General, who is appointed in accordance with the internal governance procedures of the Consortium.
24.2. The Secretariat is responsible for managing records, correspondence, and administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the Consortium and its bodies.

SECTION VIII. ASSETS AND FINANCE

Article 25. Sources of Assets Formation
This Article sets out the general sources of assets and income for the Consortium, ensuring that all resources are directed toward the achievement of its statutory objectives and internal activities.
25.1. The assets of the Consortium may be formed from:
• Entrance, membership, and other voluntary fees.
• Support, participation, or contributions from commercial, innovation, or spin-off activities in accordance with applicable law.
• Voluntary contributions, donations, and grants from individuals or organizations.
• Income from management of endowment funds or other resources supporting the Consortium’s activities.
25.2. The income or assets of the Consortium shall not be distributed among its members and shall be used exclusively to support the statutory objectives and internal activities of the Consortium.

SECTION IX. SPECIAL RIGHTS OF THE HEAD ORGANIZATION

Article 26. Role of the Head Organization
The Head Organization provides guidance, expertise, and oversight support to ensure that the activities of the Consortium align with its mission. It does not confer external legal authority or veto power outside the framework of the Consortium’s governance.
26.1. The Head Organization may be consulted on matters including, but not limited to:
• Proposed amendments or updates to the Charter.
• Suggestions regarding the name or location of the Consortium.
• Recommendations on the composition or rotation of Executive Board members.
• Advice on priority areas of activity and strategic directions.
• Recommendations concerning major organizational changes, restructuring, or dissolution, in accordance with the internal governance framework.
26.2. The Head Organization shall comply with the decisions of the General Assembly and the Statutes of the Consortium. However, it reserves the right to submit non-binding proposals in the following areas:
a) Improvement of governance mechanisms;
b) Nomination of candidates for leadership positions;
c) Content of the fundamental documents;
d) Development of international activities.

SECTION X. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Article 27. Intellectual Property (IP) Policy
This Article establishes general principles for recognizing, respecting, and managing intellectual property (IP) within the Consortium. It provides guidance for members and participants while ensuring that IP arrangements support collaborative and educational activities, without conferring external legal or commercial obligations.
27.1. The Consortium encourages the recognition and protection of intellectual property rights in accordance with applicable laws and good practices.
27.2. Intellectual property created by staff or members within the framework of Consortium activities may be managed by the Consortium in line with internal policies and agreements, with respect for authorship and contributors.
27.3. Results arising from joint projects between members are subject to separate agreements, defining rights, responsibilities, and use of outcomes in a manner agreed by the parties.
27.4. For student startups, projects, or developments, the Consortium follows a «Founder Friendly» approach, supporting educational and collaborative use, while allowing participating students or members to retain primary rights to their initiatives. Any involvement of the Consortium in such projects, including advisory or supportive actions, is voluntary and governed by internal arrangements.

SECTION XI. FINAL PROVISIONS

Article 28. Dispute Resolution
This Article establishes general principles for handling disputes, disagreements, or differences arising in connection with the Consortium’s internal activities. The aim is to promote amicable resolution and internal governance, while preserving legal rights under applicable law.
28.1. Members and participants are encouraged to resolve any disputes through direct negotiations in a collaborative and constructive manner.
28.2. If disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation, they may be referred to an internal Appeals Committee. The members of the Appeals Committee shall be elected by the General Assembly to ensure impartiality and shall not simultaneously serve as members of the Executive Board.
28.3. While the Appeals Committee provides guidance and recommendations, members retain the right to seek resolution under applicable Swiss law if internal procedures do not lead to agreement. The procedures of the Appeals Committee do not replace or limit members’ legal rights outside the Consortium.

Article 29. Liquidation
This Article outlines the principles for winding up the Consortium in a manner consistent with its non-profit objectives and the protection of its assets for the benefit of similar purposes, ensuring compliance with applicable Swiss law.
29.1. The decision to dissolve the Consortium is made by the General Assembly in accordance with the internal governance rules and requires a qualified majority as defined in these Statutes. The decision is subject to the veto right of the Head Organization as defined in Article 26.2.
29.2. Upon liquidation, any remaining assets after satisfaction of creditors’ claims shall not be distributed among members. Such assets shall be transferred to one or more non-profit organizations with objectives similar to those of the Consortium, as determined by the General Assembly in accordance with applicable law.

Article 30. Entry into Force
These Statutes enter into force upon their adoption by the Founders in accordance with these Statutes and upon completion of the registration procedures required under applicable Swiss law.

Article 31. Interpretation
In case of discrepancies, the French version of the articles of association shall prevail.