The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s education-to-workforce transition since its establishment in 1973. Designed to promote national unity, provide skills development, and create a pool of young professionals to support the country’s growth, NYSC has long been associated with university graduates.
However, for decades, there has been a lingering question: What about Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates?
On Thursday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, announced a major breakthrough — full-time HND graduates are now eligible for NYSC mobilisation. This decision followed extensive dialogue between the ministry and the Director-General of the NYSC and marks a pivotal moment for polytechnic students across Nigeria.
In this article, we break down what this means for full-time and part-time HND graduates, the NYSC eligibility rules, and how part-time students can secure their NYSC exemption certificate.
What the New Policy Means for HND Graduates
The announcement by Dr. Alausa clarifies and resolves years of debate regarding HND holders’ participation in NYSC.
Full-time HND graduates are now officially eligible for mobilisation into the NYSC program.
Part-time HND graduates remain ineligible for service but will receive an exemption certificate.
This decision reinforces the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that graduates from polytechnics are treated equitably — while still maintaining the program’s standards and structure.
Understanding NYSC Eligibility for Part-Time Students
For those who studied part-time, it’s important to note that NYSC rules are different. Here are the key eligibility considerations:
1. Mode of Study: Full-Time vs. Part-Time
NYSC mobilisation is designed primarily for full-time students.
- Full-time HND graduates will be mobilised for NYSC.
- Part-time HND graduates will not serve but will get an exemption certificate.
Key Point: Part-time graduates are not left out entirely — the exemption certificate serves as a crucial credential for jobs and further studies.
2. NYSC Age Requirement
NYSC has a strict age limit — graduates over 30 are not eligible for mobilisation.
- If you’re above 30, you automatically get an exemption certificate, whether you studied full-time or part-time.
- Many part-time students, who typically enroll later in life, often cross this threshold before graduation.
3. Foreign-Trained Graduates
If you studied outside Nigeria:
- Full-time foreign graduates must register for NYSC.
- Part-time foreign graduates cannot serve but will get an exemption certificate once they present proof of their mode of study.
Steps for Part-Time Students to Obtain an NYSC Exemption Certificate
Even though part-time students won’t serve, the exemption certificate is essential for employment in Nigeria. Here’s how to get it:
Step 1: Graduate from an Accredited Institution
Make sure your HND program is approved by the Nigerian government — unaccredited programs may not qualify for exemption.
Step 2: Register on the NYSC Portal
Head to the official NYSC portal and begin your registration, selecting part-time status.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Provide transcripts, ID, proof of Nigerian citizenship, and documentation showing you studied part-time.
Step 4: Collect Your Exemption Certificate
Once approved, you’ll get your certificate of exemption from an NYSC office or collection point.
Why Part-Time Students Are Exempted from NYSC
Why can’t part-time HND graduates serve like full-time students? The answer lies in the design and purpose of the NYSC program.
1. Limited Availability for National Service
Part-time students often work while studying, making it difficult to dedicate a full year to NYSC.
2. Different Academic Structure
Part-time programs are flexible, built for people balancing jobs, businesses, or families — unlike full-time programs, which are structured for immediate post-graduation mobilisation.
3. NYSC’s Core Goals
NYSC is about youthful participation in building the nation. Part-time graduates often fall outside the typical age bracket or lifestyle that fits into the one-year, relocation-based program.
Conclusion
The Federal Ministry of Education’s decision to mobilise full-time HND graduates for NYSC is a huge milestone. It gives polytechnic graduates the recognition and opportunity they deserve, opening doors for career growth and national service participation.
For part-time HND graduates, the exemption certificate remains vital. Though they won’t serve in the corps, this document is essential for job applications, further studies, and official processes.
Whether you’re a full-time HND graduate preparing for camp or a part-time graduate applying for exemption, one thing is clear: This policy is a step toward inclusivity and reflects Nigeria’s evolving approach to education and workforce development.
