Does NYSC Count as Work Experience?

But can you count your NYSC experience as work experience when applying for jobs? The answer is not a straightforward yes or no.

Should Serving During NYSC Count As Work Experience?

There are a few factors to consider when determining if your NYSC experience counts as work experience:

• Nature of your NYSC placement: The type of work you did during your NYSC service year will play a big role in whether it is considered relevant experience. If your placement was in a field related to your studies or your desired career path, then it is more likely to be counted as work experience.
• Responsibilities and skills gained: Focus on the responsibilities you took on and the skills you developed during your service. Did you manage projects, lead teams, or develop any technical skills? Highlighting these achievements will strengthen your case for counting it as work experience.
• Documentation and references: Having documentation like your NYSC certificate, letter of recommendation from your NYSC supervisor, and payslips (if you received any) can help solidify your claim.
• Employer’s requirements: Ultimately, it is up to the employer to decide whether or not they will count your NYSC experience as work experience. Some employers may be more open to it than others.

How to NYSC Work Experience to CV

Here are some tips for adding your NYSC experience as work experience:

Create a dedicated section for your NYSC experience on your CV or resume. Use strong action verbs to describe your accomplishment. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Highlight the skills you gained that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

In conclusion, whether or not your NYSC experience counts as work experience depends on several factors. However, by presenting your experience in a professional and well-organized way, you can increase your chances of having it counted.