The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a one-year compulsory service program for Nigerian graduates who are below 30 years of age at the time of graduation.
The NYSC program aims to expose graduates to different aspects of the country and to involve them in community development projects. The NYSC program consists of four phases: orientation, primary assignment, community development service, and winding up/passing out.
Factors That Affect Work While Doing NYSC
Many graduates may wonder if they can work while doing NYSC, especially if they have existing jobs or businesses, or if they want to earn extra income during their service year. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as it depends on several factors, such as:
The type of work
Some types of work may be compatible with the NYSC program, while others may not. For example, working remotely as a freelance writer or web developer may be feasible, as long as it does not interfere with the NYSC activities and schedule.
However, working in a bank or an insurance company may not be possible, as these jobs require a full-time commitment and regular attendance.
The employer’s policy
Some employers may be flexible and supportive of their employees who are doing NYSC, while others may not. For example, some employers may allow their employees to work part-time, adjust their working hours, or take a leave of absence during their service year.
However, some employers may require their employees to resign or terminate their contracts if they are doing NYSC.
The NYSC policy
The NYSC policy states that corps members are not allowed to engage in any other employment or business during their service year, except with the express permission of the Director-General of the NYSC.
This means that corps members who want to work while doing NYSC must seek and obtain approval from the NYSC authorities before doing so.
The personal choice
Ultimately, the decision to work while doing NYSC is a personal choice that depends on the individual’s goals, priorities, and circumstances. Some graduates may choose to focus solely on their service year and gain valuable skills and experience from it.
Some graduates may choose to work while doing NYSC to supplement their income, pursue their passion, or advance their careers. Some graduates may choose not to work while doing NYSC because of the challenges and risks involved.
In conclusion, working while doing NYSC is possible in Nigeria, but it is not easy or straightforward. It requires careful planning, communication, time management, and approval from both the employer and the NYSC authorities.
It also involves balancing the demands and expectations of both the job and the service year. Therefore, it is advisable for every graduate who wants to work while doing NYSC to weigh the pros and cons of doing so and make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (F&Qs)
What can I do during NYSC?
There are many things you can do during NYSC. Here are a few ideas:
- If you have a teaching qualification, you can teach in a primary or secondary school during your NYSC service. This is a great way to give back to your community and gain valuable teaching experience.
- Do community service. There are many opportunities to do community service during NYSC. You could volunteer at a local orphanage, help to build a school or clean up a polluted river.
- Start a business. If you have a business idea, you can start a business during your NYSC service. This is a great way to gain entrepreneurial experience and to make some money.
- Learn a new skill. There are many opportunities to learn a new skill during NYSC. You could take a course in computer programming, learn how to play a musical instrument or learn how to speak a new language.
- If you have the opportunity, you can travel to different parts of Nigeria during your NYSC service. This is a great way to see the country and to meet new people.
- NYSC is a great opportunity to network with other young people from all over Nigeria. You could join a professional organization, attend networking events, or simply meet new people in your community.
How can I make money with NYSC?
There are a few ways to make money with NYSC. Here are a few ideas:
- If you have a teaching qualification, you can teach in a primary or secondary school during your NYSC service. This is a great way to give back to your community and gain valuable teaching experience. You can also teach online, through platforms like Udemy or Coursera.
- Do community service. There are many opportunities to do community service during NYSC. You could volunteer at a local orphanage, help to build a school or clean up a polluted river. Some organizations may pay you for your services.
- Start a business. If you have a business idea, you can start a business during your NYSC service. This is a great way to gain entrepreneurial experience and to make some money. You can sell products or services online or in your community.
- If you have skills in writing, design, or programming, you can freelance during your NYSC service. This is a great way to make some extra money and build your portfolio.
- Part-time jobs. You can also get a part-time job during your NYSC service. This is a great way to make some extra money and to meet new people.
Can I get a job with an NYSC exclusion letter?
Yes, you can get a job with an NYSC exclusion letter. However, it is important to note that some employers may prefer to hire candidates who have completed NYSC.