The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has directed the Ministry of Education to include graduates of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). This announcement was made during President Tinubu’s visit to the 13th convocation ceremony of NOUN on April 13, 2024.
President Tinubu, who was represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Dr. Biodun Saliu, expressed the government’s recognition of the changing demographics of the nation and the importance of allowing NOUN graduates to participate in the NYSC scheme. He emphasized the need for the Federal Ministry of Education to work on formulating the necessary modalities for the inclusion of NOUN graduates within the NYSC framework, particularly those within the service age bracket as allowed by the law.
During his speech, President Tinubu also addressed the longstanding issue regarding the attendance of NOUN law graduates at the Law School. He announced that the doors of the Law School are now open to NOUN law graduates, ensuring equal opportunities for all. Any remaining concerns or uncertainties regarding this matter should be promptly addressed by the Federal Ministry of Education.
The President’s directive signifies a significant step towards providing NOUN graduates with the same opportunities as graduates from traditional universities. It acknowledges the pivotal role that Open and Distance Education (ODL) plays in the nation’s educational landscape and highlights the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal access to education.
The inclusion of graduates from NOUN into the NYSC will not only benefit the graduates themselves but also contribute to the overall development of the nation. By participating in the NYSC program, NOUN graduates will have the opportunity to gain valuable skills, contribute to community development projects, and foster national unity.
The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the NYSC, will need to work together to ensure a seamless integration of NOUN graduates into the existing NYSC framework. This will involve addressing logistical challenges, such as the allocation of placement and accommodation for NOUN graduates during their service year.
The decision to include NOUN into the NYSC is a testament to the government’s commitment to recognizing the value and potential of non-traditional educational institutions. It opens up new avenues for NOUN graduates to enhance their skills, gain practical experience, and contribute meaningfully to the development of the nation.
In conclusion, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to include NOUN graduates into the NYSC is a significant step towards creating equal opportunities for all Nigerian graduates. It reflects the government’s recognition of the changing educational landscape and the need to adapt policies accordingly. By embracing the inclusion of NOUN graduates, Nigeria is taking a progressive step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
