APPRAISAL OF THE NYSC SCHEME

APPRAISAL OF THE NYSC SCHEME

The NYSC scheme was established by decree No 24 of May 22, 1973 by General Yakubu Gowon’s administration. The scheme was created with a bid to reconstruct, reconcile and rebuild the country after the Nigerian civil war. The purpose of NYSC is primarily to inculcate in Nigerian youths the spirit of selfless service to the community and the spirit of oneness and brotherhood of all Nigerians, irrespective of cultural or social background.

Since inception, the NYSC scheme has made Nigerian graduates to leave their place of birth or state of origin to a different state entirely. As such, Corp members mixed with people of other tribes, learn their cultures and traditions. With this, Corp members appreciate other ethnic groups in the country. In addition, the scheme has been able to erase doubt about a place, the people and their culture. For example, there is the general saying that the Urobos are "Wayo". However, Corp members posted to Urobos land may find out that this is not actually true.
The NYSC scheme has enable young, active, intelligent Nigerian graduates to contribute their quarters towards national development.

The NYSC scheme has enable Corp members to get temporary and in most cases permanent employment. There are many cases of Corp members who were retained in their area of primary assignment.

The scheme has also enable Corp members to have a sense of belonging and to be less dependent so as to be less dependent so as to be able to face the challenges ahead.

The achievements of NYSC are too numerous to mention. However, there are some lapses which I feel should be improve upon in order for the objectives of NYSC to be achieved. These include the following:

The general welfare of Corp members should be taken seriously. This is to enable Corp members perform creditably.

The monthly allowances for Corp members should be increased. This is because, the amount paid is not enough to meet the basic needs of Corp members.

Most employee use the NYSC scheme as an avenue to over use Corpers, making them work for longer hours for little or no pay. This area should be looked into.

Most NYSC orientation camp is in a sorry state and the NYSC officials should do something to ensure that Corp stay there memorable.

I feel that when these areas are looked into it will go a long way towards improving the scheme.