The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has made a fervent appeal to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to address pressing irregularities that have been preventing polytechnic graduates from participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
On Friday, NAPS President Ridwan Opeyemi led a delegation to JAMB’s Headquarters in Bwari, Abuja, to express their concerns directly to the board.
The focal point of their appeal revolved around the plight of Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates who, despite having completed their studies and regularized their status with JAMB, find themselves unable to participate in the NYSC mobilization.
Opeyemi highlighted the frustrations of many students who, after years of academic pursuit, are left in limbo due to what he described as irregularities within the system.
“The registrar took his time to discuss with us, and we now know where the problem lies, which is mostly from our various institutions,” Opeyemi remarked, indicating a shared understanding of the root causes of the issue.
In response, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, Registrar of JAMB, clarified the board’s role and limitations. He stated that JAMB is responsible for admissions at the National Diploma (ND) level, and does not handle HND admissions, thus lacking the necessary data to assist in the NYSC mobilization process.
“Our role stops at admissions for National Diploma (ND); we have no record of HND students,” Prof. Oloyede explained.
He further advised the NAPS team to familiarize themselves with the admission guidelines and seek solutions in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
The meeting showcased a willingness from both parties to work towards a resolution, with NAPS urging JAMB to leverage its influence in facilitating a smoother transition for polytechnic graduates into the NYSC.
The engagement marks a critical step in addressing the systemic challenges faced by HND holders, as stakeholders continue to seek a collaborative path forward.