In this article, we will discuss the disadvantages of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to Nigerian youths. We will explore how it can be seen as a waste of time, as well as the lack of a loan scheme for serving corps members, which hinders their ability to start businesses. Additionally, we will delve into how the funds allocated to NYSC could be better utilized, the absence of job guarantee after completing the service year, and how NYSC can actually encourage unemployment. Finally, we will touch on the compulsory nature of the scheme and the need for a higher monthly stipend for corps members.
Disadvantages of NYSC to Nigerian youths: Time wasting
As Nigerian youths, we are all familiar with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. It is a mandatory one-year service scheme for graduates from Nigerian universities. While the NYSC was introduced with good intentions, there are several disadvantages that it presents to us as Nigerian youths.
Time wasting
One of the major disadvantages of the NYSC program is the perception that it is a waste of time. Many graduates believe that paper qualifications and connections are valued more in Nigeria than practical skills. Instead of spending a year in the NYSC program, they feel that it would be more beneficial to pursue further education or gain work experience in their desired field.
No loan scheme
Another disadvantage of the NYSC program is the absence of an active loan scheme for serving corps members. Starting a business requires financial support and guidance, and without access to loans, many corps members are unable to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams after completing their service year. This limitation hinders the economic development of our country and deprives young graduates of the opportunity to contribute to the economy.
Waste of fund and resource
The NYSC program consumes a significant amount of funds and resources, which could be better utilized for industry development or the training of graduates in more useful skills. The money spent on the program could be channeled towards building industries or providing specialized training programs that would equip us with the practical skills needed for the job market.
No job guarantee
Perhaps one of the most significant disadvantages of the NYSC program is the lack of job guarantee after completing the service year. Despite investing our time and effort in the program, there is no assurance of employment after NYSC. This leaves many graduates in a state of uncertainty, unsure of what their next steps should be in terms of finding gainful employment.
NYSC encourages unemployment
Ironically, the NYSC program itself contributes to the high unemployment rate in Nigeria. Some organizations prefer to employ corps members instead of permanent staff due to the lower salaries they receive and the poor treatment they endure. This preference for corps members over permanent staff not only perpetuates the cycle of unemployment but also discourages job creation and growth in the job market.
NYSC is compulsory
While the NYSC program is technically optional, it is effectively compulsory because a NYSC certificate is required for employment and post-graduate programs in Nigeria. This compulsory nature of the program limits the alternatives available to Nigerian youths who may opt for other avenues to contribute to society or enhance their skills.
Peanut payment
Corps members are paid a monthly stipend of N19,800, which is insufficient to cover their basic expenses. This meager amount does not adequately cater to our needs during the service year, leading to financial difficulties and the need to depend on savings or family support. To address this issue, there have been suggestions for an increase in the monthly allowance to N50,000, which would better align with the cost of living and enable corps members to meet their needs without financial strain.
In conclusion, the NYSC program presents several disadvantages to Nigerian youths. It is perceived as a waste of time, and the lack of a loan scheme hinders entrepreneurial endeavors. The program also consumes a significant amount of funds and resources that could be redirected towards building industries or providing specialized training. Furthermore, there is no job guarantee after completing the service year, and the program itself perpetuates unemployment due to the preference for corps members over permanent staff. The NYSC is also effectively compulsory, limiting alternatives for Nigerian youths. Lastly, the peanut payment received by corps members is insufficient to cover basic expenses. It is crucial to reconsider the effectiveness and impact of the NYSC program and implement potential reforms to address the disadvantages faced by Nigerian youths. We deserve opportunities that empower us to contribute meaningfully to the development of our nation.
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