Mark Calls For Extension Of NYSC Service

Senate President David Mark has called for the extension of the National Youth Service (NYSC) from one year to two years.

Mark spoke at the Dinner/Award Night organised by the National Defence College (NDC) for its graduating course participants last Wednesday in Abuja.

Our correspondent  reports that the scheme, established in 1973, is to inculcate in Nigerian youths, the spirit of selfless service to the community, as well as to emphasise the spirit of oneness and brotherhood of all Nigerians, irrespective of cultural and social background..

“NYSC at the moment is a one year programme where we train all our graduates and give them two to three weeks’ drill and that is all they do.

“I suggest very strongly, that NYSC should be expanded to two years where the first one year is devoted entirely to military training, ‘’ Mark remarked.

“The lack of national discipline in this country is because people have not been drilled in any form when they go to various universities,” he said.

The Senate President attributed the numerous problems bedevilling the country to indiscipline exhibited in the public and private lives.

Mark also called for the upgrading of the National Defence College to a university.

“If you look at the subjects which you offer and the experience you bring in, we actually desire to upgrade NDC,” he said.

Our correspondent report  that some distinguished members of staff of the college and participants received awards on the occasion.