Ruku unveils plan to equip youth through NYS, sports programmes

Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku during an award ceremony for a Gen Z football tournament at Mbuinjeru Primary School in Kagaari North Ward. [Photo/Muriithi Mugo]

The government, through the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, is in the process of establishing a nationwide framework aimed at integrating talented youth with the National Youth Service (NYS) to equip them with essential skills and link them to professional development opportunities.

Speaking during an award ceremony for a Gen Z football tournament at Mbuinjeru Primary School in Kagaari North Ward, Runyenjes Constituency in Embu County, Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku announced that his ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Sports to draft a policy that will ensure the progressive development of young talents.

The move is part of a larger agenda to commercialise youth programmes and expand opportunities for economic empowerment.

"The youth in this country are full of potential. With proper structures and support, they can excel and earn a decent living from their talents," Ruku said.

He emphasised the need for collaborative efforts across ministries to create sustainable and inclusive programmes that nurture skills, especially in sports and vocational training.

The CS reiterated the government's efforts to increase NYS intakes from the current 20,000 to 40,000, with the long-term goal of recruiting at least 100,000 youths annually.

He added that the commercialisation of NYS activities would generate revenue to support the expansion.

"We will commercialise the National Youth Service to boost recruitment numbers and provide young people with practical skills for the local and international job markets," Ruku stated.

Ruku also outlined plans to expand the National Sports Programme, saying that more young people would benefit from structured sports development, training, and exposure to competitive platforms.

During the vibrant Gen Z football tournament, Tsunami FC emerged victorious over Mugui FC in a thrilling final match.

CS Ruku, who presided over the award ceremony, congratulated the teams for their discipline and spirit of competition.