The National youth service corps (NYSC) is a mandatory service for young graduates of the university and polytechnic. The scheme was initiated when the need arose for the unity of different ethnic groups in Nigeria.
In 1972, General Yakubu Gowon, a military head of state, established and implemented the NYSC scheme were graduates of tertiary Institution were posted to different states in Nigeria aside from thiers to act as agent of promoting unity in the country.
It is statistically proven that unity can be fostered by inter ethnic methods which involve that of the scheme.
The NYSC scheme was established in 22nd of May, 1973. The scheme was aimed at promoting peace among inter- ethnic denomination in accordance to patriotism and loyalty.
The NYSC scheme on the other hand developes the Nigerian youth acquire some military experiences and training for 21 days after arrival in camp.
The scheme is characterized by the following activities.
- Screening and verification of documents
This is the first programme conducted by officials of the NYSC in order to verify graduates credentials after which prospective compare issued khaki kits, temporary identity card, state code and sleeping aids in the camp.
The following are the requirements for registration in NYSC camp.
(a). Original colored copy of callup letter.
(b) original copy of green slip endorsed by prospective corp member.
(c ). Medical certificate from any government recognized hospital.
(d). Copies of passport photographs (8).
(e). Identity card from graduated institution.
(f). Original copy of statement of result.
After registration, corp members are given kits which includes Nysc cap, khaki suit, belt, jungle boot, white canvas, shorts, plain vest, socks and crested vest with Nysc logo.
- Orientation Course
Corps members are to participate in the following camp activities which includes man o war, sport competition, sanitation and cooking activities.
There is also social activities which includes night party, inter-platoon competitions and social night embedded in the scheme.
Place of Primary Assignment
The place of primary assignment where a corp member is posted to is mearnt for him or her to carry out the roles involved. In such place corp members are assigned an employer and it is expected that one should carry out his or her duties effectively.Community development service
Just as the name implies it is also referred to as secondary assignment hosted within the state community. Every corp member is been assigned to a group which meets from time to time to carryout community development activities.
Before the commencement of CDS, there must be a stated proposal which indicates
(a). The reason for the project.
(b). Type of project.
(c). Location where project is to be carried out.
(d). Cost of carrying out the project.
(e). Source of funding the project.
(f). Duration of project
Community development service projects can generate award of honor to the corp(s) members involved.
- Lectures
The NYSC program also covers some list of courses for graduates. examples of these courses are the parade, sports, social activities and 4 hour bored lectures as seen in the image.
These lectures includes tailoring, barbing , ICT, agriculture, automobiles e.t.c
Camp assistant are selected from prospective corp members in order to support during activities.
Conclusion
National youth service corps (NYSC) is a major factor for promotion of unity. However the skills available in the system are not useful to all corp members. There are no useful current digital skills such as cryptocurrency trading, digital marketing, data analytics, programming, digital education e.t.c available in the scheme.
It is advisable to make provisions for yound graduate to learn such skills that are related to thier course for economic growth or the total allowances mearnt to be paid to corpers at the end of one year period should be given to them at once in order to be useful after proper orientation concerning management of funds.