Are you an Open University graduate wondering why you’re ineligible for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program? The exclusion stems from NYSC’s policy that only recognizes graduates from full-time, accredited tertiary institutions for mandatory service. Since Open University programs primarily operate on a part-time, distance, or flexible learning basis, they do not meet NYSC’s requirement for full-time academic engagement.
However, exceptions exist if you initially gained admission through JAMB and completed a full-time program before transferring to Open University. In this article, we’ll clarify the official NYSC stance on Open University graduates, alternative options for service eligibility, and possible pathways for reconsideration. Keep reading to understand the policy details and potential solutions.
Reasons Open University Graduates Cannot Participate in NYSC
1. NYSC Policy on Conventional Universities
The NYSC scheme was originally designed for graduates of conventional (physical) universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The program requires full-time, in-person attendance, which is not the case with open universities like NOUN, where students study via distance learning. The NYSC Act does not explicitly recognize open university degrees for mobilization, as it was established before the advent of online education in Nigeria.
2. Age Limit Consideration
Most NOUN students are working professionals or mature learners who may have exceeded the NYSC age limit of 30 years at graduation. Since NYSC targets youth service, older graduates are often exempted.
3. Lack of Physical Mobilization Structure
NYSC relies on physical mobilization camps where corps members undergo orientation and training. Open university students, who study remotely, do not have a structured academic calendar like conventional universities, making it difficult to integrate them into the NYSC mobilization process.
4. Previous Legal and Policy Restrictions
For many years, NOUN graduates were classified as “part-time students,” making them ineligible for NYSC. Although the Nigerian government has since recognized NOUN as a full-fledged university, the NYSC has been slow to adjust its policies to accommodate its graduates.
5. Debate on Academic Rigor and Standardization
Some critics argue that open universities operate under different academic standards compared to conventional institutions, raising concerns about uniformity in the NYSC program. However, NOUN has maintained that its programs meet the National Universities Commission (NUC) standards.
Recent Developments and Possible Changes
In recent years, there have been calls for the inclusion of NOUN graduates in the NYSC scheme. The Nigerian government has shown willingness to amend the NYSC Act to accommodate them, but implementation has been slow. In 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari signed a law recognizing NOUN graduates as equivalent to conventional university graduates, but NYSC has yet to fully comply.
Conclusion
While open university graduates contribute significantly to Nigeria’s workforce, their exclusion from NYSC remains due to policy limitations, structural challenges, and historical classifications. However, with increasing advocacy and legal recognition, there is hope that NOUN graduates may soon be allowed to participate in the NYSC program, ensuring equal opportunities for all Nigerian graduates.
