NYSC DG Advocates for Skill Acquisition in NDA Curriculum

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Yusha’u Ahmed, has called on the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to incorporate skill acquisition and entrepreneurship programs into its curriculum. Ahmed made this recommendation while delivering the 22nd Convocation Lecture in Kaduna for the NDA’s graduating cadets of the 71 Regular Course and postgraduate students on Tuesday.

Speaking on the theme, "NYSC and Skills Acquisition for Youth Development in Nigeria: A Panacea to National Security," the NYSC boss emphasized the importance of skills acquisition for youth empowerment and national security. He suggested that the NDA leverage its extensive land resources for agricultural production, thereby providing cadets with practical agricultural skills. According to him, this initiative would not only ensure sustainable land use but also contribute to the overall training and self-sufficiency of cadets.

"The NYSC is ready to partner with the NDA on this initiative, which will enhance cadets' skills and employability," Ahmed said. He further proposed that the academy's postgraduate program introduce skill acquisition modules to equip students with practical skills that complement their academic pursuits.

Ahmed highlighted that having employable skills is key to reducing security threats in the country. "If individuals are gainfully engaged and possess valuable skills, they are less likely to be involved in activities detrimental to national security," he added.

In his response, the Commandant of NDA, Major General John Ochai, appreciated the NYSC DG for his insightful lecture. He noted that the discussion underscored the need for individuals to acquire skills alongside their academic qualifications, contributing to both personal growth and the national economy.