The Federal Government of Nigeria has proposed extending the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme from one year to two years to enhance skills acquisition and boost youth employment. This proposal aims to equip corps members with more practical skills for job creation and national development.
- Extension of NYSC Scheme: The proposed two-year scheme aims to enhance skill acquisition for corps members.
- Digitalization of Mobilization Process: The Minister commended NYSC’s efforts in digitizing the mobilization process, which has reduced certificate racketeering.
- Deployment of Graduate Teachers: Dr. Alausa suggested deploying more graduate teachers to rural schools to address manpower gaps.
- Collaboration between Ministry and NYSC: The Minister and NYSC Director General expressed commitment to strengthening their collaboration to improve the education sector.
Rationale Behind the Proposal
- Enhanced Skills Acquisition: The proposed extension aims to equip corps members with more practical skills for job creation and national development.
- Addressing Certificate Racketeering: The digitalization of the verification process for foreign-trained graduates is expected to curb certificate racketeering.
Reactions from Stakeholders
- Minister of Education: Commended the NYSC for its proactive and digitalized approach to the mobilization process and praised the scheme for resolving issues related to Ordinary National Diploma (OND) part-time graduates.
- NYSC Director General: Reiterated the NYSC’s commitment to aligning with national policies and reforms and urged the government to create a comprehensive database of Nigerian youths studying abroad.
- Permanent Secretary of the Ministry: Reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to closer collaboration with the NYSC to uplift the standard of education in the country.
The proposed extension of the NYSC scheme has sparked discussions about its potential impact on the education sector and youth employment in Nigeria. As the government considers this proposal, it will be essential to weigh the benefits and challenges of extending the NYSC scheme.
