A long-standing controversy surrounding the exclusion of Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme may soon be resolved.
The Federal Government has taken steps to address the issue, which primarily affects HND holders who completed their National Diploma (ND) through part-time programs.
The NYSC scheme is a mandatory national service for Nigerian graduates, designed to promote national unity and foster development.
However, recent developments have drawn attention to the situation of some HND graduates who have been left out of the mobilization process due to the nature of their studies.
Protests Over Discrimination
The controversy surrounding the exclusion of HND graduates from the NYSC scheme has provoked some protests across Nigeria.
Graduates, students, and advocacy groups have voiced their frustration over the perceived injustice, seeking clarification and immediate intervention from the government.
Placards with messages like “No to discrimination,” “Give us our rights,” and “Reverse the injustice” were displayed during protests in various states.
The protests highlighted the deep dissatisfaction felt by those affected by the policy.
Government Intervention
In response to the protests and concerns raised by affected graduates, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has assured the public that the government is working on a solution.
Dr. Alausa said he is committed to resolving the issue after receiving “numerous messages and letters from part-time ND and HND students, and those who transitioned to full-time courses about their exemption from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).”
The Minister said both the Federal Ministry of Education and the Presidency are aligned in their support for the affected graduates.
“As I told the students at Yaba Tech today, the Federal Ministry of Education and our agencies stand with you. The Presidency stands with you as well. You should not be exempted from participating in NYSC,” the minister said.
A meeting with the Director-General of the NYSC is scheduled to take place in March 2025 to discuss the matter in detail and come up with a solution.
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