NYSC is a nationwide exercise that is designed with the thought of one Nigeria in mind. Graduates from all over the country are sent to other states, not their states of origin or residence. This is meant for them to experience different cultures within the country.
Northerners are usually sent to the South and vice versa. Hence, Northerners experience cultural shock when they go to the NYSC camp.
Like one guy shared, ‘A guy dropping off his towel in the middle of the room to rub lotion’ was the worst for him. Another describes ‘full grown men taking their bath outside naked beside each other’ as a shock he won’t get over anytime soon.
To many, the parades and the lack of after-Fajr sleep is new. This prompts many to leave the camp early, as one male shared. “I go parade ground, and they say we should stand for 3 hours. I packed my bag and went home”, he shared.
From the few answers gathered, most of the cultural shock northerners experience is the lack of modesty in dressing, language barrier, and emphasis on bathing naked outside. The tradition of people bathing in the same bathroom is also common, another shock to most northerners leaving the North for the first time.
Perhaps many others will share their shocking experiences in NYSC camps.
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