The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Osun State Coordinator, Agbor Ndoma Obim, has called for stronger collaboration and improved welfare packages for corps members serving in various organisations and establishments across the state.
Agbor made the call during a courtesy visit to the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, on Thursday.
In his address, the State Coordinator commended OAU management for its long-standing support to the NYSC Scheme and the corps members deployed to the institution.
He praised the management for integrating corps members into various units, especially in the health sector, where their contributions have remained invaluable.
Agbor, however, raised concerns about the disparity in the remuneration of corps members.
“The case of Corps Doctors who earn higher stipends with accommodation, while others in related healthcare professions receive far less, should be addressed.
“I also appeal to the University to review the welfare provisions to ensure fairness and greater motivation among the corps members,” he appealed.
He drew attention to corps members deployed to the university’s radio station, stating that many of them are not receiving any form of stipend despite their visible contributions.
According to him, “such practices could dampen the morale of the corps members and affect the overall impact of their service.”
The Osun NYSC boss urged the management to sustain its cordial relationship with NYSC and to continue to see corps members not just as temporary staff but as partners in progress who add value to the university system.
Responding, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, appreciated the NYSC leadership for the visit and acknowledged the significant role corps members have continued to play in the growth of the university.
Prof. Bamire described the presence of corps members on campus as a blessing and assured the Osun NYSC Coordinator that the university would continue to create an enabling environment for them to thrive.
Prof. Bamire agreed that “Corps Doctors and other professionals deserve better treatment. Their welfare remains a priority for the University. I want the NYSC to formally present its requests and I pledge that the management would consider them promptly.”
The Vice Chancellor also stressed the need for corps members to embrace digital literacy, networking, and sacrifice as integral aspects of the NYSC experience.
According to him, “these skills would not only aid their service year but also position them for future relevance in their chosen careers.”
He revealed the university’s intention to retain some of the Corps Doctors to strengthen its health services, reiterating that OAU has never rejected corps members but rather valued their contributions to its academic and administrative system.
NYSC Osun advocates improved welfare for serving corps members
