Time to report to NYSC CAMP!!!

Hey y'all!

Call-up letters have been picked up, and corpers have started reporting to their various camps. As per usual, a LOT of people would have been disappointed when they read where they were posted to - they're also probably scrambling to get their posting "fixed." Ah, the joys of NYSC. :)

Anyway, new corpers started heading to camp yesterday, June 25th. It's earlier than usual, as Batch B camp typically starts the first week of July. In any case, they've started reporting to camp and dealing with the stress of registration, getting a bed, finding and registering at your platoon, feigning communicable diseases so they can be exempted from camp, looking for mami market, etc.

My advice to you is to just relax, take it easy, and pray to God for divine patience because you'll need it. If you haven't already read my experience, the following links should give you a clear idea of what to expect.

1. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp: What to Bring
2. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp: What NOT to Bring
3. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp: Arrival
4. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp: Platoon Registration and Accommodation

While in there, make sure you choose your Community Development Service wisely. I may actually need to make a post for the how to select the best CD for you...

I wish you all the best of luck. Try to have fun. :D

Berry.

2013 Batch A Orientation Camp starts tomorrow!

Hiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!

OMG, I totally thought March 5th was next week - blame the cough/cold that's refused to leave me since last week. Awww, it's time for the new batch of  corpers to report to their various orientation camps starting from tomorrow. I just want to wish everyone of you the absolute best! Try and have fun with it. It's "just" 21 days and it'll be over before you know it... after you've screamed and cursed the very soul of NYSC at least once or twice.

Don't forget to read up on the following posts. They'll give you a much clearer picture of what to expect.

1. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp - Items you need
2. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp: What NOT to bring
3. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp: Arrival and Registration
4. Guide to surviving NYSC Camp: Platoon Registration and Accommodation
5. Day and Night in NYSC Camp
6. The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of NYSC Camp
7. NYSC Anthem and Drills

Take care to everyone - buttery or not. God bless and much love from moi!

Berry. 

NYSC Delta State Camp Review

Hello berryboos!

As you know, I like to contribute to another site - Review Naija - and the other day, I came across a review of the Delta State NYSC Camp by Nnamno N. It's really detailed and gives a good account of what the Orientation Camp was like, and I think it cuts across to all other camps in general. I've been generously allowed to "borrow" the post - which you can read directly at: NYSC Delta State Camp Review.


Posting-I was posted to Delta State. The camp is in a village called Isselle – Uku, about 20 minutes from Asaba, the capital. The moment you cross the gate, that is it - you cannot leave until the end of the 3 week orientation unless you’re extremely sick or near death. In my case the Camp Commandant i.e. the big shot soldier guy who is not to be messed with, sent all the pregnant women and nursing mothers home to re-register when they could be away from their children for the whole 3 weeks.

So I passed out of NYSC - Miss T.D's Post-NYSC Interview

Hiya Berryboos!

How are ya? I hope you're having a pretty week. Can I just say "Thank God tomorrow's Friday?!" I can't wait for the weekend to come so I can rest (yeah right). Have y'all been checking out my other blog??? You have? Good boys and girls! *gasp* You haven't??? Go to the naughty corner now! If you are not reading Berry Dakara's Blog, YOU ARE WRONG! (lol, I had to throw in Corper language).

Ok, enough playing around. 2012 Batch A Corpers just passed out within the past week or two - A HEARTY CONGRATS from me! And as usual, I got someone from that batch to answer my interview questions. Without further ado, I present Miss T.D.

My NYSC story Part 1... by D.

Hi guys,

I promised you I'd have something juicy for you to read from someone who just started his NYSC service. He FOINALLY forwarded his stories to me, and I thank God mine's over and done with. Grab some popcorn, a cold soda or hot chocolate depending on the weather and have fun reading. I've broken the story down into 2/3 parts. This is Part 1.



Hey y’all. Let me start this off by saying NYSC is a colossal waste of time! I used to be one of those people who defended the purpose of NYSC and while I still believe in that purpose, I also believe that it has been lost along the way, especially now, with the whole everyone-must-teach thing. And now that I’m actually doing NYSC, I can testify from my personal experience that it’s a big fucking waste of time! But we’ll get to that later…

NYSC Lagos Camp Review

Hey everyone,

How's 2013 going so far? I hope everyone's happy and loving life - or at least being content. Speaking of contentment, here's a great quote I got from Joyce Meyer's devotional:

Find a balance between Contentment and Ambition.

Here's the key: Learn to ENJOY WHERE YOU ARE ON THE WAY TO WHERE YOU'RE GOING. 

NYSC 2013 Batch A Time Table

Hi guys,

As promised, here's the schedule for the 2013 Batch A prospective corps members. Foreign grads have already started registering and Orientation Camp starts in March. Again, no need to worry about the other stuff in the schedule as they pertain only to NYSC officials. The link to the schedule is at NYSC 2013 Batch A Mobilization Timetable.

Pre-mobilization Workshop Meeting	16th January, 2013
Registration of Foreign-trained Nigerian Graduates	10th December, 2012 - 26th February, 2013
Submission of Masterlist. Screening/Vetting by Mobilization Officers	21st - 23rd January, 2013
Action by the ICT Department	21st - 29th January, 2013
Delivery of Corps Mobilization	30th January, 2013
Delivery of Preliminary Printouts to CPIs	30th - 31st January, 2013
Return of Corrected Printouts by Institutions to NYSC NDHQ	4th - 6th January, 2013
Action by ICT)	4th - 19th February, 2013
Sorting and Packaging of Call-up letters	20th - 25th February, 2013
Delivery of Call-up letters to Institutions / NYSC Secretariats	26th - 28th February, 2013
Briefing of Prospective Corps Members	Throughout the year
2013 Batch ‘A’ Orientation Course aka CAMP	5th - 26th March, 2013

Tales from Camp!

Soooooo, I've got a friend who's currently serving in Akure. I know her from the US and the last time I saw her, she was waaaaaaaaaaay excited about moving back to Nigeria and coming to serve. She's the one whose room in camp I put up in an earlier post.

Well she's got more pics for me to share with you. Like I said, during the daytime, when there are activities, camp can be fun. Even at night with the different events - drama competitions, talent competitions, pageants and more. Or just going to Mami Market to cool off with a hot, freshly cooked meal and some drinks and music.

Byyyyyyyyy the right

Platoon Number X, forwarrrrrd march!

Slooooooooow march!

Oodles of Noodles with Plantain, Egg and Turkey. Sure beats the camp-provided meals, which I never ate.

Cultural Dance Competition



Man-O-War Activity



Miss NYSC Camp - Akure

I don't miss camp. But I had some interesting times. Thanks Miss Loooooooooooms for the pictures. You're almost outta there!

Biiiiiiiiiiig waaaaaarm HUG from me! I give really good hugs - well, guys say I do.

Berry!

Babies in NYSC Orientation Camps...

Hi guys n gals!

So I've been keeping tabs on the latest set of corps members - they've just arrived to their Orientation camps and the stories and terror some of them are having are simply hilarious! My friend posted a picture of her room in despair, and I told her to remember that I was in a corridor-converted-into-a-room, so she should count herself lucky for having space.

Her next status was that there were 2 babies in the room... I'm sorry, WHA? QUE? She's joking, right? Apparently another lady in her camp came with a 12-day old baby! However, she was yelled at and sent back home by NYSC officials.

Well, 10 minutes later, another friend posted the following picture of a baby in an orientation camp somewhere...

I have to ask now why a woman would bring a child to the orientation camp. Concerning babies in camp though, NYSC states on their website:

  •  Will Pregnant Women and nursing Mothers be registered in the Orientation Camp?

  No. There will be strenuous exercises in the Camp which may jeopadise the health of the mother 

and the unborn child. In the same vein, babies are not allowed in the Camp, 

so nursing mothers will also not be registered

It always broke my heart to see women with infants and young children go through the stress of coming to our local government office or CD and have to fight their way through the lines to get their cards signed. At least in my local government, my LGI always made it a point to make sure that pregnant women or women with children got first priority. 

How can NYSC serve these women better, I ask? Like I said, during the registration process, I believe they should be given priority and preference to stay in their states of residence. That would be a good first step. This should be noted on their registration form, so that while call up letters are sent out, they are automatically waived from attending camp - but given the necessary instructions on getting paid allowance, signing the 'Book of Life' (this book that has every corps members' contact information), etc. 

My thoughts...

Eeeek! Re-votes and 2012 Batch C corpers go to camp!

Hello ladies and gentlemen!

I hope you're all well. So first things first... I might need you to revote for my blog as BEST TUTORIAL BLOG for the Nigerian Blog Awards. Apparently there was a snafu last week and some votes were not counted :(. So pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease re-vote. I feel bad cos I got sick of the US elections campaigning, and just when the end has come (Congratulations President Obama), I'm asking for votes. Please don't get sick of me *hugs and kisses*

Next Eeek reason! The 2012 Batch C corpers Orientation Camp started yesterday and I didn't put up a post to encourage and wish them well :(. Soooooooo sorry. Meanwhile, I had auditions for a play at church The Waterbrook on Saturday night. One of the new members got on stage to audition and mentioned that he was about to start NYSC and was going to camp this week. I called out to him "Hey, you should read my blog." And he goes "What blog is that?" I go "Aje-Butter's Guide to NYSC." And he says "YOU'RE AJE-BUTTER?!" And I squealed with delight "OMG! People read my blog. Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay." And then I apologized for interrupting the auditions - oops!

Anyways, I saw him yesterday at our rehearsals. He got posted to Lagos and he'd been to camp to register yesterday. The first thing he said to me was "Berry, you didn't prepare me for how bad it was!" *slaps hand to forehead, hiding face and running away* What I think I mentioned in passing in a previous post was that I went to Orientation Camp on Day 2, at about 4/5pm. At that point, a lot of people had already registered. Well, my new friend got to Iyana-Ipaja at 4:45am as the first person in line. Unbeknownst to him, some people had already gotten there the night before and slept there overnight. Between being sent back and forth to get seats, register, get accommodation and whatnot, he didn't leave the camp until 6:30pm. That's over 12 hours. Whereas, when I registered, I was done in 6 hours. Sawry... future corps members take note! He did say though that about 700 corpers couldn't register yesterday because NYSC officials at the camp RAN OUT  of registration forms. SERIOUSLY? Do I need to write another 'Dear NYSC' letter? (See first one here).

Well, to all the new corps members, I wish you all the very best! If you're going to brave it in camp, do it with an open mind and a pleasant attitude. Being friendly with your platoon leaders and others will only help you if you need something. Don't forget to send your stories! Have fun and Godspeed.

Luv,
Berryliciously on vacay.

So I passed out from NYSC: Miss Tomi's Post-NYSC Interview

Hiya BooBerries!

I've got an exit interview from one of my friends who I met on my last day of camp. She turned out to be in the same Local Government as I was, so it was easy to get her to do an interview for me. In fact, she was WAY excited to do it, so here goes... Wait, before we go there, VOTE for me as TUTORIAL BLOG OF THE YEAR on Nigerian Blog Awards!


1. State your aje-butter credentials, according to Berry’s definition.

Hi guys! My name is Tomi, my aje-butter credentials which are not too aje butterish are: born and raised in Nigeria :D, regular summer jaunts, college in America, total time in obodo oyimbo was about 5 years and I hauled my ass back here to serve my wonderful country.

2. How would you summarize your NYSC experience from start to finish?

OMGGGG NYSC was crazy but amazing! There were times when I wanted to cry, times when I did cry and times when I had the best laughs. It was a struggle but I'm proud I did it.

3. What, if anything, did you learn during your NYSC year? Personally and/or career-wise?

Personally, I learnt that I am a really strong person, I don't know how to word that but there were some challenges I faced at work and in my personal life that I didn't think I would overcome. My grandpa died right before NYSC was supposed to start and I was soooo close to pulling out, but I didn't. Career wise, NYSC helped me realize that I do have a lot to offer; granted, school doesn't teach you how to deal with the real world but certain skills that I acquired at college put me ahead.

4. What are your personal views on the relevance of NYSC in Nigeria currently?

NYSC is relevant in the sense that it gives you a form of a gap year to develop yourself personally and professionally. During my NYSC, I took bead making classes which help me draw in some extra income, I became a distributor of Federico Mahora products and I started up my jewelry business. It's great to have that time to start a side hustle, lol. The only reason why I would say NYSC is irrelevant in Nigeria today is because of how poorly organized it is. People say they would rather spend that year trying to hustle but the hustle doesn't always work out and it's nice to have that N19,800 allowance from NYSC as fall back money.

5. Why did you decide to go through NYSC?

I decided to go through NYSC because in the long run, I want to be in Nigeria and I didn't want to have to start dealing with NYSC at a later age. I was very "Don't come back to Naij when you leave" but in junior/third year, I had the opportunity to come back and work and I realized that Nigeria had sooo much to offer so I quickly changed my plans.

6. What was your experience like in camp? Favorite/worst memories?

I was in Lagos camp and it was crazzzzzzzy!!!! LOOOL all the "big boys and girls", I was in camp for 13 days (had to leave for gramps burial) and I got sick once but it was cool beans. My FAAAAVE memory in camp was indomie and Heineken every night... I had a vendor guy there, and the moment he saw me approaching, a nice cold Heineken was gleaming at me!!! Haha, I also enjoyed the "Fayrouz club," which was a tent with a good DJ. I was in a room with some amazing ladies. Honestly, Lagos camp was on a different level with the drunken nights annnd the Mr. Macho competition?? Eye Candy Galore. My WORST memory was frog jumping from one end of the parade ground to the other end but it was fun when I saw some other people rolling on the floor. I really didn't mind waking up early and marching on the parade ground.

7. What would you change in the NYSC program?

The organization sucks major asssss! Instead of having to take a letter to do clearance every month, I would have a portal for supervisors at work to enter some form of attendance for corpers and certify that the corpers have been coming to work.

8. What CD group did you join, and was the experience worthwhile?

I was in the Education CD group and it was ok. I only taught like 4 times because a lot of times, my girls weren't at school due to different reasons so after a while I just let it go.

9. Do you have any advice for incoming aje-butter corpers?

Oh man, incoming aje-butters, dust up your agbero skills because they will come in handy. Try to do things on time and always keep in touch with your LGI or a fellow corper who always has all the latest news. Have a decent attitude about NYSC and try and make the most of it. Definitely try and acquire a skill during your service year and network like a crazy person. Pride won't take you too far as a corper but also don't kiss everyone's ass.

10. What are your plans post-NYSC?

I want to keep working for a year before I go back for grad school; definitely want to take a break for about a month and see my Chicago babies and I'm still making beads and selling them and being a distributor for FM. Watch out for Lúlú accessories in December.

Bonus question: What are you going to do with your NYSC uniform/kit?

LOOOOOL, ok so once I got my certificate and walked outta camp, the moment I got to the car, I took off my jungle boots and left them on the side of the road. My khakis and jacket are stashed at the back of my closet, no plans for those yet.

Thanks for interviewing me!!! Kisses and love
Tomilola Olotu

*PS: So Tomi was a baaaaaaaaaaaaaad girl! No wonder I didn't meet her until camp was over. Me, miss goody-two-shoes and she as Miss Mami Market :p. Just kidding! Wish you all the best sweetie!

I've had the time of my life...

Hi guys!

Sooooooooooo, I'd been looking forward to today - Passing Out day, and it finally came. I decided to ride with some of my friends and the journey from the island to Iyana-Ipaja camp took forever and a day! Okay, it took 2 hours, but this should have been a 1-hour journey. Anyways, after our looooooong journey there, I went to the appropriate line, as they had separated everyone into groups. It looks like there were about 8000 corps members in Lagos alone! Because we got there late, there wasn't actually a line at my section, and I walked straight up, turned in my Final Clearance letter, Copy of my Posting Letter, CD Card, and ID card and finally...

I picked up my NYSC certificate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am NO LONGER Nigeria's property!

I am NO LONGER Otondo anybody!

I am NO LONGER Ajuwaiya!

I SHALL NOT be wearing that uniform EVER AGAIN.... actually, I want to wear the jacket as a dress (I'll post a picture if I pull it off). Some people actually threw their boots and shirts away right there and then :p

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

*victory dance*

Love ya berryful Berryboos!!! Thanks for all your support and reading! I've got a few exit interviews lined up, including mine. But THANK GOD IT'S OVER! I think I'm staying home tomorrow to savor this feeling. I need a holiday, innit?

Hugs n kisses!

Back to Lagos Camp...

Hey Berryboos,

Sooooo, first of all, thank God I completed my Final Clearance last week Wednesday. A friend of mine started hers on Friday and finished on Saturday. But that's not as bad as another friend who started on Friday and finished on Monday - his file was missing :-o

Anyways, you know how the NYSC Passing Out Circular said we all had to be excused from work to go back to our camps for different activities - Job Awareness Seminar and Passing Out Parade rehearsals? Well, like I said earlier, NYSC says it's mandatory to attend these things, while some of my 2012 Batch B corper friends said they got their certificates without attending anything. Just to be on the safe side, my friends and I decided to go and at least sign the attendance sheet, if nothing else. We spent 1 hour going to Iyana-Ipaja (NYSC Lagos Camp), 1 hour there (luckily we got the attendance sheet before it started being passed around - yours truly was first to sign it :-D), and 2 hours going back to the island. I'm not going back for any silly rehearsals - I'm not marching, so what the heck do they need me for?

Being back in Iyana-Ipaja was SURREAL! I can't believe I spent 3 whole weeks in that environment - like what the heck was I thinking??? Honestly, if I had to do it again, I'm not entirely sure I'd stay in camp the whole time... Although my goody-two-shoes nature would have stopped me from scheming to leave. Ah well, I did it, it's in the past, the whole journey's almost over.

LOL, while I ironed my khakis yesterday, I was literally grumbling to myself that after October 18th, 2012, I will TEAR THIS PIECE OF CRAP TO SHREDS!!!!!!!!!! As much as I complained about the poor quality of the uniforms given to us, I must admit that the trousers held up quite well. I've worn the same pair once a week for almost one full year - and no tears, no holes, no nothing. Obviously, I bought my own white t-shirts, cos theirs was beyond horrible. Maybe I'll donate what I don't want to charity... But would anyone really want to wear the sneakers and boots randomly?

I'm beginning to feel the pangs of withdrawal now. For one year, my whole life has been NYSC-focused. Now it's almost over and I have no clear path as of this moment. I need something else to keep me busy, and so far, no likely job prospects. I definitely do not want to be retained, because I did NOTHING at all in my department at work and I'll go crazy if I stay. Maybe I'll see if I can come back through another department? Or maybe I WILL go back to Atlanta for a year or two, but still keep my eyes open for other opportunities in Nigeria.

I've given myself 2 months to play, in the meantime. So November/December will be for me to laze about, watch as much TV as I want, travel (GHANA, ENGLAND, and TANZANIA are on my current destination wishlist).

HEY! What happens to this blog after I'm done??? I need ideas and suggestions. Does a new 2012 Batch C corper want to share his/her stories on here? I know I've enjoyed blogging, and would want to continue, but I need a new sustainable angle. NO to Fashion, Hair, News blogging! Maybe Travel - Berry's Adventures? Or an advice column - Dear Berry? Or if somebody proposes and I accept, a wedding blog - Berry Getting Married?

Ah, I dunno. Gotta go get some work done.

Revlon Blackberry lipstick kisses to you! (lol, even my lipstick shade has Berry in it - Choiiiiiiiiii, I'm too good - ok, that was very razz of me :p)

Berry

Final Clearance Drama!

Hey y'all,

So, two weeks from today, I will be officially done with NYSC! Mehn, does time fly by or what? Actually, it's felt like a really long year, although I remember my first foray into this NYSC service year. I thank God cos it's almost over - and also for helping me get through yesterday! What happened yesterday, you ask... I'll tell you - FINAL CLEARANCE!

Ok, so I've briefly mentioned Monthly Clearance before (Now That Camp Is Over) - where you submit a letter from your PPA (employer) to your LGI (Local Government Inspector) saying that you worked the previous month...

*side note* maybe before I'm done, I can write a mini NYSC dictionary post explaining what everything is, including acronyms? And another post on 'Introducing Your LGI Office.' *end side note*

Anyways, the month of passing out, you have to submit a Final Clearance letter from your employer, stating that you worked through your service year satisfactorily, don't owe them anything, and that you will now be discharged and handed over back to NYSC. In addition to the letter, you have to submit your cleared CDS card - this is signed by your CD leader or LGI, depending on what CD you joined, and they'll sign off that you completed your CD expectations. Now, since I was in a special CD group, I had to get mine cleared in the NYSC Secretariat in Surulere. This is where the drama happened.

I submitted my card to the head of JASA, under which a lot of special CD groups operate, and she said to get a note from another official saying that he'd looked over my card and it was good to go. This official does most of the signing when we come to CD every week. So I give him the card to look over and he says there's something wrong - that 2 of the signatures on the card are forged, so he can't clear me! WHA THE WHA WHA?!?!?! :-O I'm like "Dude, I haven't forged nothing. I've been coming consistently, every single week. Done all the work required. Submitted my card to you or my CD instructor for signing. I ain't never touched that card to write anything!" And so the back and forth ensued. He actually even wrote a note clearing all the other Batch C corpers, and refused to write my state code to clear me. See me see wahala! The signatures he was talking about were from January, during the strike over the fuel subsidy - at which point, no CDs were even being held! During that period, we were told to submit our cards to our CD instructors so that they could validate them. Which leads me to believe that my CD instructor forged this guy's signature.

Anyways, said CD instructor was with me at the time, trying to argue with the guy on my behalf. He joked with him, pleaded with him, even went so far as lying. Apparently, some 2011 Batch B corps members had forged his signature on their cards, and were reprimanded. So my CD instructor said that my card was among those that had been compromised at that time, and since those were already settled, then the guy should clear me. Now, most people would allow that lie to be told, but I protested. I said "Mr CD Instructor, I know you're lying, trying to get this guy to clear my card, but I can't stand here and let him question my character and integrity. I have done NOTHING wrong, so please don't lie on my behalf." The other Batch C corps members told me to keep quiet and just beg the guy, and I completely refused to! Why should I beg when I did nothing wrong? Begging is as good as admitting that I forged his signature and I did nothing of the sort, so I was willing to stay and argue with him until the office closed! And anyways, he'd asked my CD instructor for my phone number at some point, and was rebuffed, so I think this was his way of getting back at me. *rolling eyes*

Long story short, I stood my ground, and my card got cleared eventually. If I see that ninny anywhere else in my life, Imma give him a real talking to! Next step, going to my NYSC local government office to complete my final clearance. I got there at 1:30pm and expected to be there until 4, maybe 5pm - it's best to mentally prepare yourself for these things so that you don't get aggravated or frustrated. I'd like to say it was a seamless process, but it really wasn't. First of all, we've got a new LGI, and this was her first time of handling us. As soon as I got there, she left to have lunch for about 45 minutes. During that time, I got the necessary documents together, made photocopies, and paid for some bogus items (NYSC foundation, Eko Corper magazine, and somn else - I dunno what it was). We had to pay for those things, or else we wouldn't get the clearance done. From 2:30 to 4:00pm, we got in line, were told to sit down, lined up sitting down, lined up standing up, lined up sitting down again, lined up standing up, and finally lined up standing according to gender. Of course this whole time, people are fighting, shoving, skipping lines, and just being general nuisances. But thank the Lord, I got everything I needed DONE!

GOODBYE NYSC SECRETARIAT, GOODBYE CD, GOODBYE LAGOS ISLAND LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICE, GOODBYE GENERAL CD!

The next things to worry about are going back to camp for the Job Awareness seminar (rolls eyes), Passing Out Parade rehearsals (more rolling eyes), and finally the Passing Out Parade, where I pick up my certificate! I'm not sure about going to camp before the Passing Out Parade. On one hand, I heard they take attendance and they're beginning to be really strict... on the other hand, 2 Batch B corps members I know skipped everything and still got their certificates. We'll see. I'm a goody-two shoes, so I'll at least check out the seminar and one rehearsal. Jesus, just help the next 2 weeks go by quickly.

Whew! Longer post than I thought. Gotta get to work. Have a berry pretty day ladies and gentlemen :)

Berry

NYSC 2012 Batch C Timetable

Hi guys,

Seems like people are going to my post on Batch B 2012 timetable, so let me make life easier so nobody gets confused. The link to the schedule is at NYSC 2012 Batch C Mobilization Timetable.

Pre-mobilization Workshop Meeting	4th- 6th September, 2012
Registration of Foreign-trained Nigerian Graduates	1st August- 5th October, 2012
Submission of Masterlist. Screening/Vetting by Mobilization Officers	12th - 21st September, 2012
Action by the Computer Centre	12th - 21st September, 2012
Delivery of Preliminary Printouts	25th - 27th September, 2012
Return of Corrected Printouts by Institutions to NYSC NDHQ	3rd - 5th October , 2012
Action by Computer (Coding, Corrections etc)	3rd - 23rd October, 2012
Sorting and Packaging of Call-up letters	24th - 28th October, 2012
Delivery of Call-up letters to Institutions / NYSC Secretariats	29th - 31st October, 2012
Briefing of Prospective Corps Members	29th - 31st October, 2012
2012 Batch ‘C’ Orientation Course aka CAMP	6th - 27th November, 2012

Dear NYSC...

Dear NYSC,

Hello! How are you? My name's Berry Choco Latte. I've been a part of your program since November 2011. I just have a few things I want to express now that our time together is drawing to a close.

1. I know you're VERY busy, but would it kill you to update your website regularly? I've been stalking your home page for weeks, trying to get the time table for 2012 Batch C Orientation and Registration. All I see is a blank space after "Information for Batch C Orientation is..." and when I click on the supposed link to the time table, I'm getting Batch B's information. It's not fair for you to raise my hopes up, and then send them crashing down. Please, enh, biko, e jo, ____ (insert Hausa please here), por favor, per favore...
2. What's the probability of taking some parts, if not all, of the registration process online? Ok, so maybe the issue is ensuring that the system isn't taken advantage of - I know for sure, a percentage of people would use false identification to sign up (they're already doing it now, so it wouldn't make a difference). But ok, how about after people have enrolled for NYSC, you capture their information online, give them codes and have them pre-register for camp. During this pre-registration process, they should be able to enter their clothes/shoe sizes, so you can ensure you send the appropriate kits to each camp. In addition, since you already know what sites/structures are being used for the camps, you can allot rooms BEFORE the new corpers get to camp. ALSO, you can let them know what platoons they're in. This should cut down on the billion and one forms you make them sign before getting to camp. Of course, there will be challenges for those people who work their way around by switching to new orientation camps, but I'm sure we can figure out a way to deal with those issues.
3. Who in Nigeria's name makes the dreaded NYSC kits??? Do you have any officials that check the quality of the materials and workmanship? You wonder why people go and sew their own versions of kits - it's because YOURS SUCKS!!! Since I don't know who the uniforms and shoes are sourced to, I won't make any recommendations. I sha hope such things are given to underemployed communities to undertake.
4. What will it take to revamp the orientation camps? I feel like the government should have allotted a budget to NYSC - how about working toilets, mattresses/beds that make sense, safe and secure locations, painted buildings, etc? Maybe people wouldn't be so eager to skip camp if they were comfortable. In addition, revamping would not be enough - MAINTENANCE is key! You work closely with MDG, innit? Last I checked, they were all about SUSTAINABILITY.
5. Apply point 4 above to the Local Government offices and State secretariats.
6. Something needs to be done about your website! I know I touched on it in point 1, but seriously. Why should I hear about commendable community development projects on social websites, but none of them are posted on your website? Encourage incoming and prospective corps members with the good things that have come out of your program. In fact, maybe you should hire me as your PR person - please note, I only fly (no road trips unless necessary) and I only stay in nice hotels.
7. Create a survey for outgoing and current corps members and use the information and comments given wisely. There are a lot of intelligent people in your program with great ideas! Use them! Yes, I said it. USE US!

Erm, that's it for now. I may write another letter at the end of service, so look out for my correspondence.

Sincerely yours,
Berry!

No hugs and kisses for you.

Been BERRY busy!

Hello honey boos!

First things first... NDO! PELE! FORGIVE ME, POR FAVOR! I'm so sorry it's been a little while. Truthfully, I just kinda needed a break. A social/internet blackout - turned off my BBM, [almost] deactivated my Facebook account, stopped reading blogs, etc. Sometimes, a girl just needs time to herself, ya know? Anyways, I'm back now, so look forward to more regular posts from yours truly.

Erm, 2012 Batch B corpers shoulda come out of camp yesterday (Tuesday). I hope you managed to have some amount of FUN! Now it's time for more stress :) My advice to you is to take time to breathe and relax this weekend - as long as you have submitted your posting letters and are waiting to hear back from the prospective employer OR you have received an acceptance letter from the employer and you have registered at your local government. It's going to be a looooooooooooong year.

Oooh, I have maybe 3 months maximum left to go!!!! #NYSCPassingOutCountdown (I love how I just make up twitter tags and I haven't got a twitter account.

Anyways, I took some time out to get a little creative a la my CD. And I've got pictures!!! My model is, ermmm, related to me somehow. If you know me personally, DON'T COMMENT and give me away o!

MAKE-UP

Before

After

After

My "model" said she liked the make-up because she still looked like herself after I was done. *smiles*

JEWELRY

This is just one piece I made. I was too tired to finish the others, but will post them accordingly.

FASCINATOR

In my CD, we were taught using this material called 'Sinamay.' But I wanted to try something different and found some felt material that I liked. It's not the best, but hey, I did it all by my oneses, without any supervision. 

So that's it! Oh, guess what I discovered today... tun tun DUN... I've TOTALLY forgotten how to tie a gele! *the HORROR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!*

Ah well, I'll practice another day.

Gotta leave youse... and I promise I won't be gone as long this time. 

God bless, hugs, kisses!

Berry. 

Under the sun AND in the rain...

Hello Berryboos/Booberries!

How are y'all doing? I'm doing pretty good. I had General CD last week Friday - as usual, a disaster with all the pushing, shoving, yelling just to get CD cards signed. As if it wasn't bad enough, our LGI (local government inspector) decided to combine signing the cards with our June Monthly Clearance. Well, before I left the house, I mentally prepared myself for a looooooooooong, stressful day. I was pleasantly surprised to be done before 2:30pm - It pays to be friendly with your NYSC officials.

Anyways, the reason why we started Monthly Clearance last week (wait, have I done a post on Monthly Clearance yet? I'll check and if not, expect a post soon) - so we started it early because 2012 Batch B Corps members are heading to their various camps TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!! Fun times... Not really :p

The reason why I titled my post 'Under the sun AND in the rain' is because we are now at the beginning of the rainy season. I feel like I must alert my fellow aje-butter corpers to bring a raincoat/umbrellas/wellingtons to deal with the rain. I personally don't know what camp is like when it rains continuously - the one afternoon it rained during my camp, everyone took cover. However, the NYSC anthem says to

"lift our nation high, under the sun or in the rain..."

It might depend on your camp officials, but I wish you even more luck than I wish Batch A Corps members.

For your review, check out my series of posts on Surviving NYSC Camp:

• Guide to Surviving Camp - Items you need
• Guide to Surviving Camp - What NOT to bring
• Guide to Surviving Camp - Arrival and Registration
• Guide to Surviving Camp - Platoon Registration
• Day and Night in NYSC Camp

Alrighty, gotta go! Work calls. Enjoy the next 3 weeks in camp.

Very tight big hugs and cuddles from me because the weather's frightful!

Berry.

So I passed out from NYSC - Miss B's post-NYSC interview

Hi BooBerries (hehe, I totally just came up with that, and mefinks I loike it uber-much!)

So, I hope y'all enjoyed Mimikins' interview last week. I found her interview to be interesting, not really critical of NYSC, and it had a more positive slant than I was expecting.

Well, I've got another interview today and I was SHOCKED to read her responses. Miss B is a no-nonsense, feisty chick and she clearly made her feelings known! I'll post my disclaimer now, as opposed to the end of her interview:

Dear NYSC-Leaders-Who-Happen-Upon-This-Blog-By-Chance, kindly consider 

that anything negative in the following interview are NOT MY words. 

Please do not use them against me when it's my turn to pass out. 

Berry loves you more than cake and ice cream... 

Ok, that last bit is a BIG LIE but you catch my drift :)

And now, my friend's interview...

1. State your aje-butter credentials, according to Berry's definition (See my definition here: 
   
   I'm Miss B (If you know her, then that response actually says it all, lol)
   
   
2. How would you summarize your NYSC experience from start to finish?
   
   My NYSC experience was traumatic to say the least. To me, NYSC is a scam and the officials go on ridiculous power trips with the aim of dehumanizing and traumatizing you. I learnt the true meaning of wickedness during this experience. The work aspect however, was great, I learnt a lot, met a lot of great people and I can honestly say the company I work for is has a pretty good company structure and thus, makes work a little easier. 
   
3. What, if anything, did you learn during your NYSC year - personally and/or career-wise?
   
   Personally, NYSC is a joke and education is our biggest problem in this country. Careerwise- working in Nigeria is special and you need an extra dose of patience and a high tolerance for bs.
   
4. What are your personal views on the current relevance of NYSC in Nigeria?
   
   There is no relevance period! The initial benefits of NYSC has since been lost and the system needs a total overhaul. It's simply a money making, power grabbing venture for the officials and the government.
   
5. Why did you decide to go through NYSC?
   
   I just wanted to get it out the way and I was going through career/major life changes so I thought, why not bite the bullet now.
   
6. What was your experience like in camp? Favorite/worst memories?
   
   LMAO. Err camp...I didn't stay in camp for medical reasons. I remember being sooo excited to go to camp but as soon as I stepped foot in the gate on my very first day, umm yea all that excitement stayed in the car. Worst memory...going to the ladies and almost puking from the nastiness that was the bathroom. Getting into my 'room' and realizing that there were 38 people in a room with a maximum capacity of 16 with no electricity and only 2 windows. The constant pushing and touching...people do not respect personal space and this was a big issue for me. Best memory...none....actually, walking out the gate after my exeat form was signed was pretty good.
   
7. What would you change about the NYSC program?
   
   Everything! For one, make everything computerized...its the 21st century! Eliminate the need for weekly/monthly cd. Restructure the pay (allowee), negotiate with companies for better pay for corpers, improve/the quality of the uniforms. Utilize the massive man/brain power of the corpers to actually make a difference in the country. For instance, corpers are no longer being posted to banks, oil companies and such, but does it make sense to send someone who barely graduated with a 3rd class to be a school teacher? As a country, we need to invest in alternative means of farming, electricity, fuels,these are projects you can assign to corpers and make it competitive so that at the end of the year, corpers can make presentations/ suggestions based on the R&D they've done their whole service year. The best and most feasible solution will have the opportunity to implement their findings and actually make a change. Obviously this is an over simplified example but it can be done.
   
8. What CD group did you join, and was the experience worthwhile?
   
   Charity (special CD). It was totally worth it. Charity visits/volunteer is something that's dear to my heart and I already do in my spare time, however, with NYSC, its just something to be done. There is no continuity or genuine interest because we were forced to do it.
   
9. Do you have any advice for incoming aje-butter corpers?
   
   Expect the worst! Not trying to scare you but trust me, when u expect the worst/nothing at all, you're not disappointed. Logic and common sense don't work here. Don't argue because you end up looking crazy. Smile a lot...it will keep you sane.
   
10. What are your plans post-NYSC?
    
    VACAY! VACATIONNNNN!!!!!
    
11. Bonus question: What are you going to do with your NYSC uniform/kit?
    
    I plan to have a burning/burial ceremony. Seriously, my uniform has been ripped and torn since the first day I got it so it's in the garbage. I'm only keeping my orange boots...I kinda like em.

And there we have it! I must say I thoroughly enjoyed getting her interview responses. And while anyone can look at them as being negative responses, I actually do think that there's some wisdom behind them. I don't know if NYSC as a whole tries to get feedback from ex-corpers, but it's worth looking into. The whole idea is to see what's working and what needs to be changed. There's so much that can be done through NYSC but are the leaders willing to put in the necessary resources? I believe that through NYSC, Nigeria can effect some positive change but there needs to be a plan - a sustainable one that will not die when a new head comes into position. 

Sometimes I wish I could be a consultant for NYSC. Go into the different secretariats, camps, and local government offices to see the current structure and recommend necessary changes. I'm going to post about my general cd next week (video included) and you'll see how riotous it gets...

Toodles BooBerries!

So I passed out from NYSC - Mimikins' Interview

Hey y'all,

Congratulations to all the 2011 Batch B Corps Members who successfully passed out from NYSC on Thursday, June 14th! I wish you all well and trying hard not to be jealous of you. I was supposed to be in your batch but somehow convinced myself to postpone serving - #AlwaysListenToYourMummyWhenSheSaysToServeWith2011BatchB.

Anyways, like the last time, I've interviewed someone near and dear to me on her NYSC experience. Mimikins, as I fondly call her, served in Abuja and this is what she had to say...

1. State your aje-butter credentials, according to Berry's definition. (See my definition here: Aje-Butter Definition)
   I was born and bred in London up until I was 23. Would say I came from a comfortable home, no complaints. We didn't have maids or cooks, etc because we don't do such in London, but I am your full aje-butter child... Well I was :-)
   
   
2. How would you summarize your NYSC experience from start to finish?
   It was a smooth but bumpy ride. Don't regret it but wouldn't want to repeat it.
   
   
3. What, if anything, did you learn during your NYSC year? Personally and/or career-wise?
   Career-wise, I learnt that I NEVER EVER want to become a civil servant! Gosh! They all look so miserable, that can't be me! Personally, I learnt how to adapt to the 'Nigerian way' of life, which is totally different to the UK. And I think I adapted quite well :-)
   
   
4. What are your personal views on the current relevance of NYSC in Nigeria?
   I may get attacked for this, but I think NYSC is good for foreign-trained students, particularly those who have spent most of their life outside Nigeria. It's a totally different system and we must learn how to adapt because whether we like it or not, this is our country! And NYSC forces you to adapt. Aside that, I don't see the relevance of NYSC anymore.
   
   
5. Why did you decide to go through NYSC?
   I didn't decide to go through NYSC by choice. Came to visit my mum one christmas and she somehow convinced me to stay back in Nigeria and 'serve my country,' lol.
   
   
6. What was your experience like in camp? Favorite/worst memories?
   I absolutely loved camp!!! Not for the drills or anything because I didn't do any of that. But for the fun times with friends, the friends I made there. Mammy market at night made it that more exciting too, all those drunken moments, lol. My worst memories would probably be the cold water showers, before I discovered the woman that boils hot water, and of course, the toilet situation...
   
   
7. What would you change about the NYSC program?
   Increase the nysc allowance according to where you're posted to. And change the attitude of those bitchy NYSC officials - we didn't force you to take the job.
   
   
8. What CD group did you join, and was the experience worthwhile?
   I was made to join the Consumer Protection Council CDS group, and no, it wasn't worthwhile at all.
   
   
9. Do you have any advice for incoming aje-butter corpers?
   I'll advice my fellow aje-butters coming to serve to learn humility. I was disgusted at the attitudes of some of the foreign-trained students - acting as if they were better than people who schooled in Nigeria, disrespecting their elders, etc. Humility is worldwide, and should be practiced everywhere you go. Another piece of advice - make sure you're fully protected against malaria, and don't drink water you're not sure of. Depending on how long the soon-to-be corper has been out of the country, their body may not be used to the environment again, so protect yourself.
   
   
10. What are your plans post-NYSC?
    Still undecided whether to stay in Nigeria or go back to London for a bit. Time will tell I guess.
    
    
11. Bonus question: What are you going to do with your NYSC uniform/kit?
    Was thinking of burning my corper uniform, but may give it to someone in my village :-)
    
    
    

And there we have it! Congrats again Mimikins!!! I wish you all the best as you move forward with your life.

*Note* I was not there by that time, regarding her comment about bitchy NYSC officials o. I LOVE ALL NYSC officials, and I'm not saying that only because I don't want to be caught and given unnecessary drama when it's my turn to pass out in October *insert BB straight face smiley*

Hugs n kisses,
Berry.