The Institute for Humanitarian and Disaster Management in Katsina has raised concerns over the increasing unemployment rate among fresh graduates completing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.

Registrar of the Institute, Ephraim Aiyada, made the observation while addressing newly inducted corps members at the NYSC orientation camp in Katsina. He lamented the persistent struggles faced by young graduates, particularly repeated job applications that yield no response.

According to him, many applicants are not rejected because of poor academic performance but because they lack the work experience and professional skills that recruiters now prioritise.

“Many applicants fail not because they lack degrees, but because they lack either years of work experience or professional qualifications,” Aiyada said. “Employers often make decisions within 30 seconds. Once I pick your document, I go straight to qualifications and years of experience. If these are missing, I check for certifications. Without experience or skills, no employer will invite you.”

He noted that professional certifications can compensate for limited work experience, giving fresh graduates a competitive advantage. Aiyada recalled a case in 2018 where a first-class graduate lost a job to a second-class applicant who had three relevant professional certifications.

“This is why many graduates keep applying without success. Your degree alone cannot carry you. Professional training fills the gap,” he added.

Aiyada commended the NYSC for programmes such as the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) scheme and ongoing partnerships with professional bodies to equip corps members with market-ready skills.

He highlighted that the Institute for Humanitarian and Disaster Management and the Institute for Global Peace and Conflict Management now offer over 20 professional courses, as well as Postgraduate Diploma options, membership certification, and professional licenses at highly subsidised rates for corps members.

A key highlight of the event was the recognition of two NYSC officials — Orientation Camp PRO, Alex Obeamta, and Muhammad Bakori — for their outstanding dedication to corps members’ welfare, mentorship, and professional development.

The Institute praised both officers for their exemplary service and commitment to supporting corps members’ growth.