FG Mandates Thesis Submission for NYSC Corps Members

The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a policy requiring all National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) participants to submit a thesis as a prerequisite for completing their mandatory one-year national service. The directive, announced by the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, aims to harness the intellectual potential of Nigerian graduates, foster research-driven solutions to national challenges, and align the NYSC program with global best practices in youth development.According to a report, the policy mandates that corps members undertake a research project relevant to their field of study or a pressing national issue, culminating in a thesis to be submitted to the NYSC Secretariat. The initiative, which takes effect from the 2025 service year, is designed to transform the NYSC from a primarily community service program into a hub for innovation and problem-solving. "This is a bold step to ensure our graduates contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development through research and critical thinking," Dare said during a press briefing in Abuja.The thesis requirement will apply to all corps members, regardless of their academic discipline, with topics expected to address sectors such as agriculture, technology, healthcare, education, or infrastructure. NYSC participants will be supported with access to research mentors, online resources, and partnerships with universities and research institutions. The government has also promised incentives, including potential funding for outstanding theses that propose viable solutions to national problems.The NYSC Directorate has set up a committee to oversee the implementation, with guidelines expected to be released within weeks. Corps members will have the flexibility to conduct their research individually or in groups, with submissions undergoing evaluation by a panel of academic and industry experts. Successful completion of the thesis will be a condition for receiving the NYSC discharge certificate, a document critical for securing employment in Nigeria.

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