The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has begun enforcing a new directive that requires polytechnic and monotechnic graduates to provide evidence of completing the mandatory one-year Industrial Training (IT) program before participating in the NYSC scheme.
In July 2024, a circular issued by the NYSC Director General warned prospective corps members that they would need to present proof of IT completion to commence the NYSC program. This decision was aimed at promoting the sanctity of Nigeria’s education system, as stated by the NYSC Coordinator in Lagos State, Mrs. Yetunde Baderinwa.
The new directive is now being implemented at NYSC orientation camps nationwide. HND holders without IT certificates are being turned away from the camps.
The acting Director of Press and Public Relations of NYSC, Mrs. Caroline Lembu, explained that the IT certificate is a prerequisite for obtaining an HND certificate and is therefore required for admission into the NYSC program. She emphasized that the policy is not intended to reject students but to ensure that they meet the necessary requirements.
In Osun State, the NYSC Public Relations Officer, Funmi Okundaye, confirmed that the policy is being enforced. She stated that affected students are being sent home to obtain their IT certificates and will be allowed to return to the camp once they have the required documentation.
