The government plans to increase the number of beneficiaries under the Public Service Internship Programme from 8,000 to 50,000, with the expanded intake scheduled to begin in January 2027.
Head of Public Service Felix Koskei announced the implementation timeline on Monday, November 9, following consultations with the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes on how to implement President William Ruto’s directive.
Koskei said the expansion was intended to give more young Kenyans an opportunity to acquire workplace experience, strengthen their professional skills and improve their chances of securing employment.
“Today, we met with the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes to take forward the Presidential Directive to expand the Public Service Internship Programme from 8,000 to 50,000 interns effective January 2027,” he stated.
He explained that the initiative would place more young people alongside experienced public officers, allowing them to benefit from mentorship and gain practical exposure while contributing to public service delivery.
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Koskei added that the experience and skills acquired through the programme would help participants compete for employment opportunities or establish their own businesses, in line with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The meeting also considered ways of improving human resource management and strengthening accountability across government institutions to ensure Kenyans receive more efficient and timely services.
“We also discussed how to strengthen human resource management and accountability across the Public Service so Kenyans receive timely and efficient services,” Koskei added.
Ruto Announces Incentives for Private Employers
The development follows President William Ruto’s announcement that the government would introduce incentives for private companies offering internship opportunities to young graduates.
Speaking on Thursday, November 5, the President said the National Internship Programme would be expanded from January 1, 2027, to accommodate 50,000 young Kenyans, who would receive monthly stipends throughout their internship placements.
Ruto also appealed to businesses and private sector organisations to participate in the initiative by providing graduates with opportunities to gain practical experience and professional mentorship.
He said the government would establish incentives for private employers willing to take on interns, arguing that businesses had an important role in preparing young people for the labour market.
The expanded programme is part of the government’s broader efforts to address youth unemployment by increasing access to workplace training and opportunities for professional development.
