The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program is a one-year compulsory service for graduates in Nigeria, aimed at fostering national unity and development.
One question that often arises among students is whether graduates from the School of Nursing can participate in this program.
Can I Go for NYSC Service after School of Nursing?
The answer is complicated and depends on the type of nursing program completed. For those who have graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from a university, they are eligible to participate in the NYSC program, just like it is for graduates from other disciplines. This is because they have completed a degree program that is recognized by the NYSC.
However, for graduates from Schools or Colleges of Nursing who have obtained a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nursing, the situation is a little bit different.
These graduates are also eligible to serve in the NYSC program, but they must have gain admission through JAMB. However, not all nursing programs offer ND/HND qualifications, so it is very important for students to verify the nature of their program to understand their NYSC eligibility.
On the other hand, those who have completed a Registered Nursing (RN) diploma, which is typically a three-year course offered by Schools or Colleges of Nursing without the need for JAMB UTME, are not required to serve in the NYSC program.
This is because the RN diploma is considered a specialized professional course that does not fall under the NYSC’s degree or HND qualification criteria.
For nursing graduates who are interested in participating in the NYSC program, it is important to confirm their eligibility with the NYSC officials. This can be done by visiting the NYSC website or an NYSC office for accurate information. It is also advisable to have all relevant documents, such as the nursing certificate and any other higher qualifications, ready to present when verifying eligibility.
In summary, while university graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing are required to serve in the NYSC, those with an ND/HND from a School or College of Nursing are also eligible. Graduates with an RN diploma, however, do not participate in the NYSC program. Understanding these differences is important for nursing students and graduates as they plan their educational and professional paths in Nigeria.