In a major announcement during the passing-out parade of 18,145 National Youth Service (NYS) recruits, President William Ruto revealed that 4,000 graduates will be absorbed into the National Police Service as part of an upcoming nationwide recruitment exercise.
I have already given instructions to the Ministry of Interior that next month, when we hire 10,000 police officers, 4,000 must come from the National Youth Service
President RutoThis directive aligns with the government’s broader goal of prioritising NYS graduates for positions in disciplined forces, and integrating them into government-led initiatives like the Affordable Housing Programme.
Recruitment Delays Due to New Online System
Originally scheduled for earlier this year, the police recruitment process experienced delays following the National Police Service Commission’s move to introduce a new online recruitment system. The platform, intended to enhance transparency and prevent malpractice, has not yet achieved full functionality, resulting in a pushback of the planned exercise.
Largest NYS Cohort in History
The Gilgil event marked a historic milestone with the largest ever NYS cohort—18,145 recruits completing their training. Among them were 4,756 women and 12 persons living with disabilities. NYS Commandant General James Tembur confirmed that all recruits had undergone thorough training and satisfied the requirements to transition into the next phase of national service programs.
Expanding Opportunities for the Youth
President Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young Kenyans beyond the security sector. He encouraged graduates to explore career paths in Agriculture, ICT, Engineering, Hospitality and Entrepreneurship among others.
He noted that the future ahead is bright and full of promises and opportunities. That means that some of the NYS graduates will advance into higher training to become skilled professionals that will drive the industry forward, while others will venture into private enterprise powered by the Hustler Fund, Nyota, and other initiatives.
NYS to Serve as a Gateway for Empowerment
President Ruto reiterated his administration’s vision of making NYS a gateway for underprivileged youth to access education, training, and employment. To support this, the government is constructing 20 new hostels at the Gilgil campus, with a capacity for 20,000 additional recruits, increasing NYS recruitment targets to 100,000 youths by 2028 and enhancing women’s participation in the service through a directive to NYS leadership.
Upgrading NYS Infrastructure
The President also pledged to personally oversee the construction of a modern kitchen facility at the Gilgil campus. He further instructed the Ministry of Public Service and the National Treasury to boost staffing levels, increase resources for NYS and upgrade campus amenities in line with the growing intake
A Vision for Kenya’s Future
President Ruto reminded the recruits of their pivotal role in nation-building where he quoted;
Wherever your path leads, each of you carries the responsibility and privilege of building Kenya’s future
President Ruto