Full-Time HND Graduates with Part-Time OND Now Eligible for NYSC, FG Announces

The Federal Government of Nigeria has made a significant change in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) eligibility requirements. 

Now, full-time Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates who began their education with part-time Ordinary National Diploma (OND) are eligible to participate in the NYSC. 

This decision has brought hope to many graduates who were previously excluded from the program.

What is NYSC?

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a mandatory one-year program for Nigerian graduates.

 After completing their tertiary education, graduates are expected to serve their country by working in different parts of Nigeria. 

The program is designed to promote national unity, skill development, and personal growth.

Who Benefits from the New Policy?

Before this change, graduates who started with part-time OND programs were not allowed to participate in the NYSC, even if they later completed their HND through full-time study. 

With the new policy, full-time HND graduates who completed part-time OND programs are now eligible to join the NYSC, ensuring that more graduates can take part in the national service.

Why is This Change Important?

This change is a big step towards inclusivity. 

Many graduates who had completed their education with part-time OND feared they would miss out on the benefits of NYSC, such as gaining work experience and connecting with potential employers. 

Now, they have the chance to serve their country, improve their skills, and boost their career prospects.

What Will Happen Next?

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has been instructed to quickly upload data of eligible graduates onto the new HND portal.

Nigeria Polytechnics have also been advised to ensure the information of eligible students is submitted to the portal to enable smooth mobilization for NYSC.

Impact on Future Graduates

This policy change ensures that more Nigerian graduates, regardless of their educational path, have equal opportunities to participate in the NYSC. 

It’s a positive move towards fairness and equal treatment for all graduates.

Conclusion

The Federal Government’s decision to allow full-time HND graduates with part-time OND to join NYSC is a welcome change.