The Jigawa state government has directed local governments to improve welfare packages for Corps members stationed in the state in order to boost morale
Gov. Umar Namadi issued the directive during the 2023 Corps Employers Workshop on Tuesday at the National Youths Service Corps secretariat in Dutse.
The governor, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Information, Youths, and Sports, Mr Sagir Musa, explained that the administration had supported the NYSC scheme in a variety of ways.
“As a result of the country’s economic hardship, we have directed the local governments that host these Corps members to increase their welfare.”
“We also want to address the issue of employer rejection and underutilization of Corps members, which is why we support the Corps employers workshop,” he said.
The Emir of Dutse, His Highness Hamim Muhammad-Sanusi, also emphasized the significance of the National Youth Service to the nation’s development and peaceful coexistence.
Sanusi, speaking through Kiyawa local council District Head Alhaji Adamu Aliyu, described the scheme as a “life-line scheme” that has come to a halt.
“The service has grown in popularity over the last 50 years, indicating that it is here to stay.”
“It is an obligation for all employers and other stakeholders to support the scheme in every way possible,” the emir said.
Dr Mahmud Abba of the Geography Department at Bayero University, Kano, highlighted the tasks expected of employers of NYSC Corps members in a presentation.
As he puts it, “Employers are expected to be Supervisors, supporters and educators of the Corps members working under them, for an effective service delivery.”
Mrs Aisha Adamu, the NYSC Coordinator in Jigawa, stated in her welcome address that the workshop aimed to promote a healthy environment for Corps Members in their places of assignment.
The workshop’s theme for 2023 is “Evolving Strategies for Promoting a Healthy Work Life Balance for Corps Members – The Role of an Employer,” she explained.
“The scheme is facing ever-increasing challenges such as rejection, underutilization of corps members, and insufficient welfare provisions such as housing and transportation allowances.”
The Coordinator reminded Corps Employers of their obligations to make adequate budgetary provisions for the welfare of Corps Members in order for them to discharge their duties.
She warned Corps members against truancy, absenteeism, and evasion from service, emphasizing that the NYSC strongly condemns such behavior.
Mrs. Adamu praised Gov. Umar Namadi for his unwavering support for the scheme’s operations in the state.
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