The Federal Government has inaugurated a reform committee to initiate a comprehensive overhaul of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
This initiative aims to strengthen the scheme’s structure and align it with national development goals, as well as the evolving needs of Nigerian youths.
The committee’s mandate includes reviewing existing policy documents, engaging with stakeholders nationwide through consultations and public forums, recommending legal, policy, and institutional reforms to the NYSC Act and its operational guidelines, proposing a framework for improved funding, monitoring, and evaluation, and submitting a comprehensive report to the Honourable Minister of Youth Development within the agreed timeframe.
Additionally, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, proposed the introduction of a Teachers’ Corps and Medical Corps for NCE-certified graduates and healthcare professionals, respectively, particularly those willing to serve in rural areas for a two-year (optional) period. These efforts aim to strengthen education and healthcare delivery while offering employment pathways.
Furthermore, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hajiya Hadiza Bala Usman, emphasized the importance of restructuring technical and vocational skills training to align with students’ academic development. She stressed that such alignment would empower youth to make meaningful, long-term contributions to their communities and the nation at large.
The committee is expected to submit its comprehensive report within a stipulated timeframe, marking a significant step toward revitalizing the NYSC scheme to better serve the country’s development priorities and youth expectations.