Improving Welfare and Awareness in the NYSC Scheme
In a recent discussion regarding the role of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Nigeria's educational system, Maigari emphasized the importance of corps members while also clarifying that the educational system would not have collapsed without their involvement. She acknowledged that while corps members provide valuable support, there are already qualified teachers in schools. “The seat of education may not have collapsed, but they (corps members) give us adequate support. In these schools, there are teachers, and having corps members there is also a win-win situation for both NYSC and the Ministry of Education,” she stated. Maigari highlighted that corps members bring fresh perspectives and skills, which are honed through practical experience during their service, resulting in a mutually beneficial arrangement.
The Gombe NYSC Coordinator, Chinwe Nwachuku, addressed the need for a roundtable discussion aimed at sensitizing both employers and corps members about the NYSC scheme. She noted a significant lack of awareness regarding the workings and expectations of the program among stakeholders. “We have noticed a lack of awareness on the part of corps employers and corps members regarding the workings and expectations of the scheme,” Nwachuku explained.
The roundtable aimed to foster better understanding and communication between corps members and their employers. Nwachuku emphasized the importance of feedback, stating, “We are also aware that feedback is necessary. Hence, this meeting aims to ensure that, by the end of the discussion, we are better informed about our rights and duties. We also hope that any perceived lapses in NYSC management in Gombe will be addressed.”
Abdulsalam Kabir, the Assistant Director of Community Development Service, urged employers to maintain contact with NYSC officials to verify the activities and attendance of corps members during Community Development Service (CDS) days. He stated, “This will ensure that corps members do not take advantage of CDS days to be absent.” This call for accountability is crucial in ensuring that corps members fulfill their responsibilities and contribute effectively to their assigned communities.
The discussions surrounding the NYSC scheme highlight the need for improved welfare, awareness, and accountability among corps members and their employers. By fostering better communication and understanding of roles and expectations, stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness of the NYSC program and its impact on Nigeria's educational system and community development.
