Can Graduates of Part-Time, Distance Learning/Sandwich Serve In the NYSC Program?

Many candidates aspire to pursue full-time and regular degree programs primarily because they desire to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. They want to engage in the mandatory national service after completing their studies at a university or polytechnic.

However, with the increasing availability of distance learning, part-time, and sandwich programs offered by universities, candidates who opt for these alternative modes of education are now facing concerns regarding their eligibility for NYSC participation.

Previously, serving in the NYSC was exclusive to those who completed full-time BSc or HND courses. However, recent developments have brought changes to this scenario. JAMB, in collaboration with schools and NYSC, has established various procedures.

As part of these procedures, JAMB now requires all polytechnics and universities offering distance learning and part-time programs to enroll their candidates on the JAMB portal. This step ensures that the relevant data of these candidates is captured and can be accessed by other entities, including NYSC, when necessary.

Graduates of Part-Time, Distance Learning and Sandwich are Not Eligible For NYSC Service

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a program set up by the Nigerian government to involve the country’s graduates in nation-building and development. However, not all graduates are eligible for this service. Specifically, those who have completed their degrees through part-time, distance learning, or sandwich programs are not qualified to participate in the NYSC.

This exclusion is tied to the process of JAMB regularization. JAMB, the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board, is responsible for the admission of students into Nigerian tertiary institutions. For part-time students, JAMB regularizes their admissions to ensure their academic records are officially recognized in their database. However, this process is often misunderstood.

Regularization does not equate to eligibility for NYSC mobilization. The primary purpose of JAMB regularization is to maintain accurate records and verify the educational pursuits of part-time students. It is not a step towards inclusion in the NYSC program.

For the year 2024, it has been made clear by JAMB that part-time National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates will not be mobilized for NYSC service. This decision is not within JAMB’s purview; their role does not extend to NYSC mobilization. Instead, their focus is on ensuring that part-time students’ admissions are properly documented for future reference and verification.

It’s important for current and prospective part-time, distance learning, and sandwich students to be aware of this distinction. While their academic efforts are recognized and validated through JAMB regularization, it does not open the door to NYSC service. This information is very important for educational planning and setting realistic expectations regarding post-graduation opportunities.

In conclusion, while JAMB plays a significant role in the academic journey of part-time students, it does not influence their eligibility for the NYSC program. Understanding this can help guide students as they make informed decisions about their educational paths and career prospects in Nigeria.