A Kipsigis professional from Bomet County, Charles Korir, has urged young people to take advantage of the Government-United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) internship initiative, describing it as a major opportunity to tackle youth unemployment and equip graduates with practical workplace experience.
Speaking during a church service at Koiyet Catholic Parish in Mutarakwa Ward, Bomet Central Constituency, Korir said the programme, implemented in partnership with the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), is designed to prepare graduates for the job market and improve their chances of securing permanent employment.
He said the initiative forms part of President William Ruto’s commitment to empowering young people through employment, skills development and economic empowerment.
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Korir encouraged eligible youth aged between 18 and 35 years to apply through kenyanextgen.co.ke, noting that the programme targets diploma, degree, master’s and doctoral graduates, as well as final-year students in tertiary institutions seeking workplace exposure.
Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend of between KSh20,000 and KSh25,000 during the internship period to help meet their basic needs while gaining valuable professional experience.
Govt allocations
According to Korir, the government has allocated Ksh2 billion in the 2026/2027 financial year to launch the programme, with about 30,000 young people expected to benefit in the first phase across the country’s 47 counties.
Korir said the government has assured applicants that the recruitment process will be free, transparent and strictly merit-based.
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He added that the programme will be expanded over the next three years to benefit more than 100,000 young people, giving more graduates an opportunity to acquire practical skills and work experience.
Korir also urged skilled but uncertified youth to enrol in the government’s expanded Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme.
He said the government has set aside funds to cater for examination and administrative fees for more than 40,000 applicants through the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA).
“The certification programmes will be offered in TVETA-accredited institutions, enabling skilled Kenyans to obtain nationally recognised qualifications and improve their employability,” he said.
On national politics, Korir praised President Ruto for prioritising youth employment, training and economic empowerment programmes.
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He called on residents to support the President’s development agenda, saying unity among Kenyans is essential for the country’s social and economic progress.
Korir also appealed to members of the Kalenjin community to remain united and rally behind President Ruto, saying the Head of State deserves the community’s support as he implements his development agenda.
He further urged residents to maintain peace, remain vigilant and register as voters ahead of the next General Election, saying active participation in the democratic process is key to promoting accountable leadership and accelerating development in Bomet County and across the country.
