National Youth Service
The National Youth Service (NYS) in Sierra Leone is a mandatory one-year program for university and college graduates, established by the NYS Act of 2016. It is designed to bridge the gap between academic life and the professional job market while fostering national unity.
The process is structured into five key stages:
- Eligibility and Enlistment
Before applying, you must meet the following legal requirements:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of Sierra Leone.
- Education: Must have graduated from a recognized university or college.
- Age: Must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Exclusions: Members of the Armed Forces, Police, and National Fire Force are exempt from the service.
- Application and Recruitment
Applications are typically handled through the official NYS portal via the government’s digital services platform (WANGOV).
Call for Applications:
The NYS issues a formal “Call for Application” for specific batches (e.g., Batch 7 for 2024/2025).
Registration:
Applicants must visit nys.gov.sl to fill out the online forms and upload proof of graduation.
Selection:
Candidates are screened based on their academic qualifications and the needs of various sectors (public and private).
- Orientation and Training
Once selected, “Corps Members” undergo a mandatory orientation phase.
Orientation Camp:
A residential period (usually between 3-4 weeks) where participants receive training in life skills, leadership, civic education, and national values.
Skills Acquisition:
Specialized training is often provided to help graduates adapt to professional environments, including ethics and ICT skills.
- Deployment and Placement
The NYS manages the posting of graduates to various institutions across the country.
Placement:
You are assigned to a “Placement Institution” (PI), which can be a Ministry, Department, Agency (MDA), or a private sector partner.
Duration:
The service lasts for one full year.
Support:
During this time, the NYS monitors your progress and handles any administrative or support issues between you and the employer.
- Completion and Certification
Upon successful completion of the 12-month service:
Final Report:
Both the corps member and the placement institution submit performance reports.
Certificate of Service:
You are issued a Certificate of National Service, which is often a required document for formal employment in Sierra Leone’s public sector.
Key Contact Information for Inquiries
For further information, you can reach the NYS directly:
Office Address: 6 College Road, Leicester, Freetown.
Phone: +232 76 606545 / 088-746-317
Email: youthservice@nys.gov.sl