In a historic move toward educational equity, the Nigerian Federal Government has officially approved the mobilization of Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. This landmark decision, announced on March 21, 2025, ends years of systemic exclusion faced by polytechnic graduates and marks a transformative shift in Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape.
A Long-Awaited Victory for HND Graduates
For over a decade, thousands of HND graduates from accredited polytechnics were denied participation in the mandatory one-year NYSC scheme, despite completing full-time programs. This exclusion fueled frustration and deepened perceptions of inequality between university and polytechnic graduates. The recent announcement, spearheaded by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Yusuf Sununu, and the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Y.D. Ahmed, has finally addressed this disparity.
How the New System Works
The government has directed the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to compile and upload data of all eligible HND graduates into a centralized admissions system. Key steps include:
- Creation of a Verified Database: Ensuring accuracy by requiring polytechnics to submit graduate records promptly.
- Launch of a Dedicated Portal: A live online platform for NYSC to directly verify and mobilize only graduates of full-time, accredited HND programs.
- Eliminating Past Discrepancies: Streamlining the enrollment process to prevent administrative errors that previously barred qualified candidates.
This system aims to foster transparency, reduce delays, and ensure deserving graduates are no longer sidelined.
A Triumph for Equity and Inclusion
The decision has been hailed nationwide as a critical step toward dismantling academic discrimination. Stakeholders, including educators and student unions, applaud the government for prioritizing fairness. “This is a bold move that reaffirms the value of technical education,” remarked a spokesperson for the National Association of Polytechnic Students.
Former HND graduates, many of whom had lost hope of serving their country, have expressed relief. “This recognition validates our hard work and skills,” shared one graduate.
What Happens Next?
While the government has not yet announced a specific timeline for mobilization, preparations are underway. Graduates are advised to:
- Contact Their Institutions: Confirm their records have been submitted to NBTE.
- Monitor Official Channels: Stay updated via NYSC and NBTE websites/social media.
A Catalyst for Broader Reforms
Beyond resolving NYSC mobilization, this policy signals a broader commitment to elevating technical and vocational education in Nigeria. By bridging the gap between polytechnics and universities, the government underscores the importance of diverse skill sets in national development.
Conclusion
The inclusion of HND graduates in NYSC is more than a policy shift—it’s a victory for justice, unity, and the recognition that every qualified Nigerian deserves equal opportunity. As the nation celebrates this milestone, stakeholders urge sustained momentum toward inclusive reforms in education and beyond.
Stay informed! Follow official NYSC and NBTE platforms for real-time updates.
Source: Vanguard Newspaper (March 21, 2025).
