By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Friday, swore in a total of 1,610 corps members for 2023 Batch B Stream 1 orientation course in Anambra.

The event held at Nnamdi Azikiwe unity permanent orientation camp in Mbaukwu/Umuawulu, Awka South LGA, Anambra State, was attended by governor Chukwuma Soludo, represented by Mr Patrick Aghamba, the commissioner for Youth, the State Chief Judge, Hon. Ochie Anyachebelu, and others.


Speaking at the occasion, the State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Blessing Ekene Iruma, disclosed that the corps members included 702 males and 908 females, adding that since arrival, their response and participation in the various activities have been commendable.

"They have been disciplined and helpful to the running of the day to day activities of the Camp. The purpose of this Orientation Course is to properly introduce and acquaint the prospective Corps members with the ideals and objectives of the NYSC
programme.

"The Orientation Course, is an opportunity for them to learn important
skills, imbibe discipline and foster a sense of nationhood and unity. It is also a time for them to interact with one another, build friendships and develop leadership qualities. I would like to express my profound gratitude to the Government of Anambra State for their continuous support towards the NYSC Scheme," she noted.

Iruma also assured corps members of security and welfare, even as she stressed the needs for them to be of good conduct, cooperate with NYSC officials and members of the host community.

"Your behavior and attitude will determine the success of your stay here. Take advantage of the various skill acquisition programs available and actively participate in community development projects. These opportunities will
not only empower you but also leave a lasting impact on the community.

"During the course of this Orientation, there will be various cultural and recreational activities to engage in. I encourage you to actively participate and embrace the rich cultural heritage of Anambra State. This will foster unity and understanding among corps Members from different parts of the country," she added.

The NYSC boss also appealed to both the State and Local govermment authorities for intervention in the area of locating the proposed NYSC Southeast Area Skill Acquisition Centre in Umuawulu.

"This will provide Corps members and the entire community the opportunity to acquire valuable skills that will enable them to become self-employed and contribute to the development of the
State. We also appeal to the Anambra State Government to speedily intervene in the erosion menace currently threatening the structures of the orientation camp.

"I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the host communities of
Umuawulu/Mbaukwu as well as the Awka South Local Government administration
for their warm reception and hospitality. Your support and cooperation have made
it possible for us to hold this Orientation Course successfully," she concluded.

It was observed during the occasion that some parts of the parade ground have been completely cut-off by gully erosion resulting from recent repeated heavy downpour, even as the security fence and structures at the orientation camp risk being washed away if nothing is done to remedy the situation.

Speaking on the development, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo regretted that erosion has been a constant menace in the state, noting that over 1,000 active gully erosion is already ravaging the state.

The governor who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi, while speaking to journalists, urged the people and residents to consider planting of trees to help curtail the excesses of erosion in the state. He also said the government will look into the erosion matter at NYSC with hope of providing solution.

Congratulating the new corps members, Soludo said NYSC has over the years, lived up to the vision of impacting positively on national development especially in rural communities through
developmental projects.

He urged the corps members to engage in various community development projects and activities, and to fully immerse themselves in the unique Anambra experience to make the most of this opportunity.