If you are a fresh graduate who has been mobilized for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, you might be wondering what to expect at the orientation camp.
The orientation camp is the first and most exciting stage of your service year, where you will meet other corps members from different parts of the country, learn new skills, and participate in various activities.
Activies in NYSC Camp
In this post, I will share with you some of the activities that take place at the NYSC orientation camp and how to prepare for them.
Registration
The first thing you need to do when you arrive at the camp is to register. You will need to present your call-up letter, school ID card, statement of result or degree certificate, and passport photographs.
You will also need to fill some forms and provide your personal and bank details. Make sure you have photocopies of all your documents and keep them in a clear file bag.
After registration, you will be given a kit containing two white shirts, two white shorts, a pair of white socks, a pair of white shoes, a cap, and a belt. You will also be assigned to a platoon and a hostel.
Verification
After registration, you will go through a verification process where your identity and credentials will be confirmed. You will also undergo a medical checkup to ensure that you are fit for the camp activities.
If you have any health issues or special needs, you should inform the officials and provide a medical report from a recognized hospital.
Orientation Lectures
One of the main activities at the camp is the orientation lectures. These lectures are meant to educate you about the objectives and expectations of the NYSC program, as well as the political, cultural, social, and economic aspects of the state where you are serving.
You will also learn about the NYSC anthem, motto, logo, and code of conduct. The lectures are usually held in the morning and afternoon sessions at the multipurpose hall or parade ground. You are expected to attend all the lectures and take notes.
Language Classes
Another activity that takes place at the camp is the language classes. These classes are designed to help you learn the local language of your host community and communicate effectively with them. The classes are usually optional and held in the evening after the lectures.
You can choose to learn any of the major languages in Nigeria, such as Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, or any other indigenous language.
Drills
One of the most challenging but fun activities at the camp is the drills. The drills are physical exercises that involve marching, saluting, and obeying commands from the soldiers. The drills are meant to instill discipline, teamwork, and patriotism in you.
You will also learn how to handle and salute the national flag. The drills are usually held in the morning and evening before and after the lectures. You will need to wear your white shirt, white shorts, white socks, white shoes, cap, and belt for the drills. You will also need to carry your water bottle and handkerchief or face towel.
Skill Acquisition Training Program
One of the most beneficial activities at the camp is the skill acquisition training program (SAED). This program is aimed at equipping you with entrepreneurial skills that can help you become self-reliant after your service year.
You can choose from various skills such as bead making, fashion design, photography, catering, cosmetology, ICT, agriculture, etc. The SAED program is usually held in the afternoon after the lectures at designated venues. You will need to register for your preferred skill and attend all the sessions.
Social Activities
One of the most enjoyable activities at the camp is the social activities. These activities include cultural dances, drama presentations, comedy shows, talent hunts, beauty pageants, etc.
The social activities are meant to showcase your talents and creativity, as well as promote unity and diversity among corps members.
The social activities are usually held in the evening after dinner at the multipurpose hall or parade ground. You can participate in any of the social activities either as an individual or as a platoon.
Competitions
Another activity that takes place at the camp is the competitions. These competitions include sports such as football, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, etc., as well as quizzes, debates, spelling bees, etc.
The competitions are meant to test your physical and mental abilities, as well as foster healthy rivalry and camaraderie among corps members. The competitions are usually held throughout the camp period at different venues. You can participate in any of the competitions either as an individual or as a platoon.
Cooking
One of the most essential activities at the camp is cooking. Cooking is not only a way to feed yourself, but also a way to bond with your fellow corps members. You can choose to cook in your hostel, at the mami market, or at the camp kitchen.
You will need to buy your own food items and utensils, or share with your friends. You can also eat at the camp cafeteria, where you will be served three meals a day. However, you will need to present your meal ticket before you can get your food.
Sanitation
One of the most important activities at the camp is sanitation. Sanitation is not only a way to keep the camp environment clean and hygienic, but also a way to demonstrate your civic responsibility.
You will need to participate in the daily cleaning of your hostel, parade ground, multipurpose hall, and other facilities. You will also need to dispose of your waste properly and maintain personal hygiene. You will need to bring your own bucket, toiletries, and cleaning materials.
These are some of the activities that take place at the NYSC orientation camp. They may seem daunting or boring at first, but they are actually fun and rewarding.
The orientation camp is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will cherish for the rest of your life. So, make sure you prepare well, participate fully, and enjoy every moment.
