The Nyota internship programme has unveiled plans to pay young participants a monthly stipend of six thousand shillings as the government moves to expand opportunities for skills development and reduce unemployment among recent graduates.
The initiative targets thousands of Kenyan youth aged between eighteen and thirty five who will be placed in various public institutions and private sector firms for hands on training across sectors such as agriculture, health, manufacturing, technology and creative arts.
Officials behind the programme say the stipend is intended to cushion interns from transport and daily subsistence costs, enabling them to focus fully on gaining practical skills that enhance their employability.
They argue that while the amount is modest it represents a significant step toward recognising the contribution of interns who often work long hours with minimal financial support.
The programme aims to provide structured mentorship and exposure over a six to twelve month period after which interns may be absorbed by some of the participating organisations depending on performance and available vacancies.
Youth employment remains a major challenge in the country with recent data showing that a large percentage of university and college graduates struggle to find formal jobs in the first three years after completing their studies.
The Nyota programme is being touted as a bridge between school and the labour market enabling young people to gain valuable experience required by employers.
The stipend element is seen as a major incentive that could attract widespread uptake of the internships especially among those from low income backgrounds who often forgo such opportunities due to financial constraints.
Programme managers revealed that the first cohort will be selected through an open online application portal with priority given to applicants who demonstrate strong commitment and come from marginalised areas.
They urged employers to support the initiative by offering quality placement opportunities. Youth groups have welcomed the stipend announcement but called for timely disbursements and transparency in selection to ensure the programme meets its objective of empowering young people and reducing joblessness across the country.
Written By Ian Maleve
