Kenyans are now proposing a return to the Moi-era policy that allowed youths to go through National Youth Service (NYS) training before joining colleges and universities.
This is one of the several proposals that Kenyans have submitted to the task force mandated to assess the terms and conditions of service for police, prison and NYS officers.
Speaking after a public hearing on the national task force on the improvement of the terms and conditions of service and other reforms for members of NYS Service in Eldoret, Tuesday, the task force chairperson, former Chief Justice David Maraga said a majority of Kenyans are of the view that NYS has helped develop discipline among the youth.
“The main thing literally everybody was saying is that they are happy with what NYS does as it disciplines our young people, it gives them a sense of direction, maturity and if possible they would like all the youths to go through it particularly those going to colleges and universities,” Maraga said.
The retired Chief Justice further noted that some of the Kenyans have proposed the decentralization of NYS training.
Many of those who have spoken in the ongoing public views collection forums say setting up NYS colleges in every county would help ensure more youths go through the service.
Top up savings
Others have called on the government to financially support NYS graduates, by topping up an amount they usually save while undergoing the training.
“Because of the numbers of the youths, Kenyans say NYS college should be in every county to absorb more,” Maraga told journalists at the Uasin Gishu County hall.
“They are also recommending that what the youth would have saved, the government should top up so that those who get skills, they can get implements they can start in their various areas,” he added.
The task force was formed by President William Ruto to address issues around police officers, Kenya prison service officers and the NYS.
According to Maraga, they expect to complete public engagements across all the 47 counties after which they will retreat to draft a report that will be presented to the President.
“Before the end of May, the report will be out,” the former Chief Justice said.
NYS trainees are usually exposed to strict discipline, dedication, perseverance, persistence, courage and commitment to higher ideals.
