Steps By Step Guide For Execution Of CDS Project

Community Development Service (CDS) is one of the four (4) Cardinal Programmes of NYSC in which corps members contribute positively to the development of their host communities throughout the period of national service. The NYSC community development programme is a year-round affair.

NYSC CDS project

Through the CDS, members of the Service Corps work with the local communities to promote self-reliance by systematically prospecting and executing development projects and programme which impact 

positively on the socio-economic development of the host communities. CDS allows Corps members to contribute positively in the development of their host communities.

Steps For Execution Of CDS Project

To participate in a personal CDS, it must be approved by the state coordinator. Approval is subject to application from the corp member. Previously, we have discussed how to write a CDS project proposal with samples and what we want to do when approved. Now let us see how to execute the project.

Read Also: NYSC Community Development Service (CDS) Project Proposal Template (Sample)

NYSC CDS Project Community Entry

Corp member are expected to work with community gatekeeper. This is the identification and engagement of community ‘gatekeepers’. These gatekeepers include:

 - traditional leaders

 - religious leaders

 - youth leaders

 - women leaders

 - opinion leaders

 - other key stakeholders

 Activities Of Community Entry

1) Interact sufficiently with host community and together identify projects based on the felt needs of the community.

2) In conjunction with the Local Government Inspector and Zonal Inspector, build preliminary opinion and support base for the project through sensitization and advocacy of the following people:-

- Community Head/Village Head

- Youth Leader

- Opinion Leader

- School Principal

Strategies For Mobilizing Funds And Materials

Mobilizing resources in consultation with community members from the community, Local Government Council, Government and Non-Government Organizations as well as public spirited philanthropists. Funding of CDS project is a shared responsibility of the Community, 

Government and stakeholders who are beneficiaries of such projects. On no account should any corps member fund CDS project from his/her personal money as doing so would nullify the viability of the project. Also, on no account should Corps members write letters to government, parastatals and private organizations without passing through the State Coordinator.

Linkages And Their Usefulness

Linkages are Governmental and Non-Governmental organizations that support the execution of Corps members’ CDS programmes and provide local support for the execution of corps members’ CDS activities. Linkages include but are not limited to Multinational Corporations, Collaborating agencies, Social Organizations and Clubs, Religious bodies, Community Based Associations, Governmental Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations, Philanthropists, Foundations etc.

Read Also: How To Write NYSC CDS Project Proposal

Funds for project execution should be sourced through the following:-

- Corporate organizations

- Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

- Philanthropists

- Government Agencies

- Public spirited individuals in the community

- Political office holders/representatives

There should be a comprehensive analysis of income and expenditure of funds and materials received with receipt attached for the purpose of accountability. Mobilization of resources should not be done in isolation but in conjunction with community members and other relevant stakeholders.

Feedback necessary for project sponsors. Ensuring contact with linkages relevant to the execution of the project jointly carried out by corps member(s) and the community.