Nairobi: The government is working on modalities to increase the number of young people in the public service to demystify the traditional stereotype that the sector is dominated by aging officers. State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Jane Imbunya has reiterated the government's commitment to creating opportunities for young people.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Imbunya emphasized the government's agenda of expanding opportunities for youths locally and internationally, speaking at a roundtable meeting with youth from different parts of the country. Dr. Imbunya stated, 'We have called youths here today because they are our agenda. A good number of them graduate from universities every year and remain jobless. I don't believe that youths should only be prepared for tomorrow. They are the strength of today.'
Discussions with the youth focused on key thematic areas, including questions about the public service and responses from technical experts in the State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development. The PS further assured young people that the government is working to create more job avenues, particularly through the Digital Superhighway initiative, which is expected to open up significant employment opportunities.
To bridge the gap for lack of experience by fresh graduates, the government, in collaboration with the Public Service Commission (PSC), has been running the Public Service Internship Programme (PSIP) since 2018. The programme, which offers a year-long, non-renewable placement in Ministries, Departments, State Agencies, and Public Universities, has so far benefitted over 30,000 young people. 'The PSIP is designed to help graduates gain practical skills and work experience, thereby enhancing their employability,' explained Dr. Imbunya.
In addition, other internship opportunities have been introduced, including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Internship Programme, and the ICT Authority Internship Programme which provides ICT graduates with mentorship and networking opportunities. These initiatives are all aimed at equipping and preparing young people for roles within the public service.
Responding to concerns raised by the youth, the Director of Human Resource Management Policy Martin Situma confirmed that the government is developing new policies to expand internship opportunities. 'We are working to increase the number of internship positions from 5,000 to 30,000 through partnerships with the private sector. A framework is being developed jointly with stakeholders to make this a reality,' Situma said.
The youth participants welcomed the government's commitment, noting that such initiatives would go a long way in reducing unemployment and ensuring more representation of young people in public service.