President William Ruto has enlisted several changes that have taken place within the National Youth Service (NYS) in the last year.
Among the changes announced by Ruto include an expanded capacity to increase the intake of more trainees.
Ruto spoke on Monday, August 26, 2024, at the NYS paramilitary academy in Gilgil during the recruit passing out parade.
“Over the past year, important transformative changes have taken place at the NYS, driven by the government’s determination to enhance its impact across the country. We have expanded the intake of recruits for greater inclusivity and reach and developed a robust business model aimed at promoting the NYS’s operational sustainability,” Ruto said.
Ruto also announced that there have been several strategic partnerships and economic diversification initiatives between NYS and other partners, including one with the University of Nairobi Enterprises and Services (UNES) Limited.
The president also cited that agricultural projects by NYS, such as the expansion at Athi River, have increased agricultural productivity and positioned the NYS as a key player in the edible oil market.
“Commendably, this turnaround extends further and covers a robust contribution to environmental conservation through the Greening Kenya Initiative, which has added significant momentum to our goal of planting 1 billion trees by 2032. This dedication to preserving Kenya’s natural heritage deserves commendation,” Ruto added.
NYS to KDF
Ruto has also announced plans to recruit significant numbers of service men and women from NYS into the Kenya Defence Forces (NYS).
At the same time, the NYS remains indispensable to our efforts to enhance public service delivery and national security. The government has upheld its commitment to recruit significant numbers of service men and women into the Kenya Defence Forces and has ensured job placements for NYS graduates both locally and abroad.
Also, Ruto says that additional initiatives have been undertaken to improve the terms of service within the organisation and to embrace digital transformations that enhance transparency and efficiency in NYS operations.
“This commitment to accountability and service excellence is necessary because the government is committed to delivering full value for every shilling of public resources, and also because the legacy of corruption, wastage and inefficiency, which has haunted this organisation for over a decade, must be banished for good. As the nation’s foremost steward of public resources, I am determined to transform the NYS into a symbol of exemplary integrity, efficiency, and commitment to national transformation,” he added.
“Looking forward therefore, the government will continue to support the NYS as a critical driver of national youth empowerment and a reliable partner in national development initiatives. Our commitment to providing enhanced training, imparting competitive skills, expanding commercial ventures, and promoting sustainable practices is stronger and more urgent than ever.”
