Table of Contents
- Concern Over Unemployment Rate
- Job Search Struggles of Graduates
- Barriers to Employment
- Importance of Professional Skills
- Commendation for NYSC Initiatives
The Institute for Humanitarian and Disaster Management in Katsina has raised concerns regarding the increasing unemployment rate among NYSC graduates.
The Registrar of the Institute, Ephraim Aiyada, voiced this concern while addressing newly sworn-in corps members at the Katsina NYSC orientation camp.
He pointed out that many recent graduates continue to face difficulties in their job searches, often submitting applications that go unanswered.
According to him, the primary obstacles confronting young applicants are not poor academic performance but the growing demand for work experience and professional skills.
“Many applicants do not fail due to a lack of degrees, but rather due to insufficient years of work experience or professional qualifications. Employers often make decisions about an application within 30 seconds,” he stated. “If your documents do not demonstrate experience or relevant certifications, you will not be invited for an interview.”
Aiyada mentioned that professional skills can somewhat compensate for work experience, providing applicants with an edge in competitive job markets. He recounted a 2018 incident where a first-class graduate lost a position to a second-class graduate who possessed multiple professional certifications.
“This is the reason many graduates remain unemployed despite numerous applications. A degree alone is not enough. Professional training helps bridge the gap,” he added.
He praised the NYSC for implementing skill-development programs such as SAED and for collaborating with professional organizations to enhance access to training and certification for corps members.
The institute reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, mentorship, and improving the overall welfare of corps members.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main challenges facing NYSC graduates in finding jobs?
The main challenges include a lack of work experience and professional skills, rather than poor academic performance.
How can professional skills impact job applications?
Professional skills can serve as a substitute for work experience, giving applicants a competitive advantage in the job market.
What initiatives has NYSC introduced to help corps members?
NYSC has introduced skill-development initiatives like SAED and partnered with professional bodies to provide training and certification opportunities for corps members.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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