Full-Time HND Graduates Cleared for NYSC Mobilization, Says Education Minister

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has officially announced the resolution of a long-standing issue concerning the eligibility of Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Speaking after a strategic dialogue with the Director-General of NYSC, Dr. Alausa confirmed that only full-time HND graduates are now cleared for NYSC mobilization.

This breakthrough is a welcome relief for many full-time HND holders who had previously been excluded from participating in the national service program. The decision reflects the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to promoting fairness and inclusivity in Nigeria’s education system. However, Dr. Alausa clarified that those who earned their HND through part-time programs remain ineligible for NYSC.

To ensure a smooth mobilization process, the Minister disclosed that the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has been tasked with expediting the collation of data for eligible graduates. All Polytechnic Rectors have received a circular instructing them to upload relevant graduate data onto a newly created HND admission portal, which will now serve as the official database for NYSC mobilization.

Dr. Alausa reiterated that mobilization is strictly for graduates of full-time HND programs and urged all eligible candidates to take immediate action in preparing for their service year. He emphasized that the new portal is designed to address past challenges with admission documentation and to streamline the entire mobilization process.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to providing equal opportunities for all qualified Nigerian graduates, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to national development through the NYSC scheme.