Story of the Day? Why This Part of Ruto’s Mashujaa Day Speech Sparked Reactions Among Kenyans

President William Ruto has announced plans to expand the national internship programme to accommodate 50,000 young Kenyans from January 1, 2027, in a move aimed at helping graduates gain work experience.

Speaking during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the President said each successful beneficiary would receive a monthly stipend while gaining practical workplace skills.

Ruto said the proposed expansion seeks to address a challenge facing many young people who struggle to secure jobs because they lack experience.

“Too many young people cannot secure employment without experience, yet cannot gain experience without employment,” he said.

Under the proposal, the programme will offer young Kenyans an opportunity to move from education into the workplace while learning skills that can improve their chances of finding employment.

The President also said the selection process would be transparent, digital and based on merit. The government plans to introduce incentives to encourage private employers to provide meaningful internship opportunities.

The announcement comes as many graduates across the country continue searching for employment after completing university, college and technical training courses.

The existing Public Service Internship Programme has offered graduates practical experience and professional mentorship. In June 2026, the Public Service Commission inducted 8,286 interns under its eighth cohort.

However, participation in an internship does not automatically guarantee permanent employment, as the programme is mainly intended to equip young people with workplace skills.

The proposed expansion is part of several measures Ruto announced during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations. Other proposals include tax relief for low-income earners, changes to stamp duty on certain land transactions and removing import duty on mobile phones.

The government is expected to undertake the necessary financial, administrative and other processes before implementing the proposed changes.

If implemented as announced, the expanded internship programme could create more opportunities for young people seeking their first professional experience.

What are your thoughts on Ruto’s plan to expand internship opportunities to 50,000 young Kenyans?

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