NUC moves to review exclusion of NOUN graduates from NYSC

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has announced plans to review the long-standing exclusion of graduates from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) from participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.

NUC Executive Secretary Abdullahi Ribadu said the commission would engage NYSC authorities to reassess current mobilisation policies, following concerns raised by Ewuare II, the chancellor of NOUN.

The traditional ruler had criticised the policy, describing it as unfair and discriminatory against NOUN graduates, particularly those who meet the age requirement for national service.

Responding, Ribadu acknowledged the concerns and noted that the policy may no longer reflect the current reality of the university’s student population.

“I have heard the concerns of the Chancellor regarding the lack of mobilisation of NOUN graduates for the NYSC,” he said, adding that discussions would be initiated to explore possible policy adjustments.

He explained that the original exclusion was based on the profile of NOUN students in its early years, when most were working professionals above the NYSC age limit of 30. However, he said the demographic has shifted significantly in recent years.

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“Unlike in the past, where graduates were mostly above 30, we now have younger graduates who are eligible for service,” Ribadu said.

The planned review could potentially open the door for thousands of NOUN graduates to participate in the national service programme, addressing a long-standing concern about equal treatment across Nigeria’s higher education system.