Best Work to Do During NYSC to Build Skills & Earn Income

If you’ve ever wondered “What work can I do during NYSC?”, the answer is simple: a lot more than you might think. While the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program is mainly about national service, it also provides opportunities to gain valuable work experience, develop new skills, and even earn extra income. From your primary assignment to side hustles and community projects, there are productive ways to spend your service year that can shape your career and personal growth long after you pass out.

Work To Do During NYSC

1. Focus on Your Primary Assignment

Your Place of Primary Assignment (PPA) is where you’ll spend most of your time during service. This could be a school, government office, hospital, or private company. Treat it as your first real job — be punctual, take responsibilities seriously, and use the opportunity to learn workplace ethics. The experience you gain here can open doors after NYSC.

2. Engage in Community Development Service (CDS)

CDS is a key part of NYSC, encouraging corps members to give back to their host communities. Whether it’s environmental sanitation, health campaigns, or educational outreach, these projects help you develop leadership skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. They also look impressive on your CV.

3. Learn a Skill Through SAED

The Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program is one of NYSC’s most underrated opportunities. It offers training in areas like fashion design, ICT, catering, photography, and more. Starting a skill early in your service year gives you enough time to become proficient before your POP (Passing Out Parade).

4. Take on Side Jobs or Freelance Work

If your PPA workload is light and you have spare time, consider side jobs that don’t conflict with NYSC rules. Examples include:

Tutoring students in your area.
Freelance writing, graphic design, or social media management.
Small-scale buying and selling within your community.

Always ensure these activities don’t interfere with your official duties.

5. Network and Build Relationships

Your service year exposes you to people from different states, professions, and backgrounds. Attend NYSC events, join professional groups, and connect with colleagues at your PPA. These networks can be valuable for job opportunities or business partnerships in the future.

6. Volunteer for NGOs and Community Projects

Non-governmental organization often welcome corps members as volunteers for health drives, literacy programs, and advocacy campaigns. This adds depth to your experience and helps you discover new interests while making a real difference.

Conclusion

Your NYSC year is more than just wearing the khaki uniform and showing up for parades — it’s a chance to work, learn, and grow. From excelling at your primary assignment to developing marketable skills and building a strong network, there are countless productive things you can do. If you make the most of this one year, it can become a powerful springboard for your career, personal growth, and financial independence long after service ends.