NATIONAL PANEL reports that the NYSC team under the Coordinatorship of Mrs Bamai Mercy Dawuda in Ebonyi had first embarked on a unity walk as the flag-off for the anniversary event, after which, came up with the exhibition of SAED (Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development), CDS (Community Development Services) and ventures' products on Wednesday at the Scheme's State Secretariat, Abakaliki.
Dr Nweli Ifeanyichukwu Hilary, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) on Thursday and the NYSC Golden Jubilee Award Night on Saturday at Bishop Thomas MacGettrick Pastoral Centre Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State Capital.
She noted that in the lineup activities for the NYSC anniversary, some of the partners of the scheme were invited to emphasize the achievements of the scheme, noting that its creation was aimed at fostering national unity and integration. "It is for us to see the areas we have contributed to the national development," Mrs Bamai added.
Recall that in his lecture for the anniversary celebration anchored on the theme; "NYSC: Five Decades of Fostering National Unity and Development," Dr Nweli Ifeanyichukwu Hilary, described the NYSC Establishment Act as a Nigerian legislation which was enacted in 1973; saying it provides the legal framework for the establishment, structure, and operation of the scheme.
Emphasizing the NYSC objectives, Nweli described the scheme as a program in Nigeria aimed at fostering national unity, integration and development.
He noted that the scheme aims at instilling a sense of patriotism and national consciousness in the Nigerian youths, equipping them with practical skills through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development programs, identifying and executing community development projects, engaging themselves in post-camp development drives in their host communities and for self-reliance, appreciating rich cultural diversity of Nigeria, learning and improving on various leadership roles and responsibilities within the program, understanding teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills that are essential for their personal and professional growth.
Highlighting the achievements of the NYSC within the timeframe for the anniversary festivity, especially in promoting national unity, community development, education, healthcare, and various other sectors in Nigeria, the Lecturer said that the scheme has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the country, aiming at empowering Nigerian youth and foster their participation in nation-building.
He identified major challenges facing the scheme which in his words include the security concerns and safety of Corps members, infrastructural limitations in the orientation camp and Corps members' places of their primary assignment and alignment with the changing needs of the society, calling for immediate intervention by the relevant authorities.
He equally observed: "The NYSC has stood the test of time and become an institution deeply rooted in the fabric of Nigerian society. Despite the challenges, it has successfully brought together young people from diverse backgrounds, enabling them to appreciate and understand the vast richness of our nation. Looking ahead, it is crucial to address the evolving needs of society and equip corps members with the skills and knowledge required for the 21st century. The NYSC must continue to adapt, innovate, and collaborate to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in the years to come. Let us celebrate the achievements of the past and embrace the opportunities of the future as we work together towards a united and prosperous Nigeria."
