Corp members

The Federal Government has officially approved the mobilisation of full-time Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking a significant policy shift.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who clarified that only full-time HND graduates would be eligible for NYSC service.

To facilitate the process, the government has directed the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to expedite the collation of data for eligible HND graduates. A circular has also been issued to all Polytechnic Rectors, instructing them to upload graduate data onto the newly created HND admission portal to streamline mobilisation.

Previously, HND graduates who completed part-time National Diploma (ND) programs were ineligible for NYSC due to admission irregularities. This was further complicated by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) stopping the regularisation of illegal admissions, making it difficult for part-time graduates to obtain admission letters required for service.

A statement issued by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press & Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, confirmed the resolution of this long-standing issue.

“The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, is pleased to announce the resolution of the long-standing issue regarding the mobilisation of Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Following a dialogue with the NYSC Director-General, the Minister confirmed that only full-time HND graduates are eligible and can now proceed with their mobilisation,” the statement read.

Dr. Alausa reiterated that part-time HND graduates remain ineligible for NYSC mobilisation, emphasizing that the new HND admission portal will ensure proper documentation and official records for full-time graduates.

He urged all eligible full-time HND graduates to take advantage of the opportunity and proceed with their mobilisation without delay. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equity, fairness, and inclusivity in Nigeria’s education system, ensuring equal opportunities for all qualified graduates to contribute to national development through the NYSC scheme.