Are Part-Time Students Eligible to Go for the NYSC Service?

Are you a part-time ND/HND student looking forward to participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program? If so, there’s some crucial information you need to be aware of.

Recently, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) conducted an online session on Twitter where they shared vital updates about the mobilization process for NYSC.

This news is especially important for part-time ND/HND students who are aiming to be part of the NYSC mobilization for this year’s and onwards.

In this blog post, we’ll break down the key points from JAMB’s announcement and what it means for your NYSC journey. We’ll cover the steps you need to follow, the importance of JAMB regularization, and how it fits into the bigger picture of your service year preparations.

Whether you’re just starting your higher education journey or you’re nearing the end, understanding these details will help you smoothly transition into the NYSC program without any hitches.

So, let’s get started with what you need to know to ensure your spot in the upcoming NYSC mobilization.

NYSC Mobilisation for Part-Time ND/HND Students

Many students wonder about their eligibility for this service, especially those pursuing part-time National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) courses.

Let’s break down the current situation and future possibilities regarding their participation in the NYSC.

Part-Time Students Are Not Eligible to Serve

Let’s clear the air: only full-time graduates are required to participate in the NYSC service. This means if you attended a university, polytechnic, or college of education on a full-time basis, you’re expected to register and serve for one year, contributing to the development of the country in various capacities.

On the other hand, if you completed your degree through part-time studies, distance learning, or sandwich programs, you’re not eligible for the NYSC camp or the one-year service. Why is this the case? The NYSC program is designed around the schedules and curriculum of full-time studies, which part-time programs differ from significantly.

So, what happens to part-time, distance, or sandwich program graduates? Upon registration for the NYSC program, they receive a Letter of Exclusion or a Certificate of Exemption. This document officially recognizes that they are not required to participate in the service due to the nature of their educational programs.

For full-time graduates, completing the NYSC service is marked by receiving a Discharge Certificate. This certificate is an important document, often required for employment and further studies within Nigeria.

JAMB Regularisation: What Does It Mean for Part-Time Students?

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has a process called regularisation for part-time students. This process is essential for ensuring that part-time students’ admissions are officially recorded in JAMB’s database.

However, it is important to understand that this regularisation is not linked to NYSC mobilisation. It’s a step for administrative purposes, confirming the students’ educational journey but not affecting their NYSC service eligibility.

Current Stance on NYSC Mobilisation for Part-Time Students

As of 2024, part-time ND/HND students are not mobilised for NYSC service. This decision is not within JAMB’s responsibilities. The board’s role is limited to maintaining records and verifying educational qualifications.

Therefore, even though part-time students go through the regularisation process, it does not qualify them for the NYSC program.

Past Instances of Mobilisation and Their Legality

There have been cases where part-time students were mobilised for NYSC. However, these instances were not sanctioned by JAMB and were considered outside the legal framework. JAMB has highlighted that such mobilisations were not lawful and did not align with Its policies.

Potential Changes for Part-Time Students

The conversation about part-time ND/HND students’ eligibility for NYSC is ongoing. Many part-time students have voiced their desire to participate in the service, leading to discussions and protests.

JAMB has acknowledged these concerns and indicated that the matter is under review. There is a possibility that new legislation could be introduced, allowing part-time students to be officially included in NYSC mobilisation in the future.

In conclusion, while part-time ND/HND students are currently not eligible for NYSC mobilisation, there is a growing conversation that could lead to changes.

Students and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about any legislative updates that may open the door for part-time students to serve in the NYSC.

For now, it remains a waiting game, with hopes for a positive resolution that includes all dedicated students in the nation’s development efforts.