The Federal Government has introduced a new policy ensuring that National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members will no longer be posted to serve in areas outside their field of study. This landmark decision, announced by the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, is aimed at maximizing the skills and expertise of Nigerian graduates during their service year.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, the minister emphasized that the policy would align the deployment process with the nation’s growing demand for specialized skills. He noted that the move would not only enhance productivity but also provide corps members with valuable hands-on experience relevant to their future careers.
For decades, corps members have expressed dissatisfaction with postings that placed them in roles unrelated to their educational backgrounds. Many have argued that this mismatch undermines the purpose of the scheme and diminishes their ability to contribute meaningfully during their service year. With the new directive, these concerns are expected to be addressed, fostering greater satisfaction and efficiency among corps members.
The minister revealed that the NYSC would collaborate with various professional bodies, academic institutions, and employers to ensure accurate placement of graduates. He stressed that deployment would now consider each graduate’s area of expertise, ensuring their skills are fully utilized in sectors such as education, healthcare, engineering, and technology.
Stakeholders in the education and employment sectors have lauded this development, describing it as a bold step toward bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical application. Employers, in particular, anticipate an improvement in workplace contributions from corps members, especially in specialized fields.
The minister reassured the public that the government would provide the necessary resources to implement the policy effectively. He also encouraged corps members to embrace the new system as an opportunity to advance their careers and contribute meaningfully to national development.
