Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has announced an ambitious government plan to scale up the National Youth Service (NYS) recruitment to 100,000 members annually, positioning the institution as a key driver of youth empowerment and national development.

Speaking after a visit to the NYS Paramilitary Training Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County on Monday, Ruku said his ministry intends to expand the academy’s infrastructure to accommodate the increased intake.

“Ahead of next year, we intend to have the paramilitary academy infrastructure expanded to accommodate the additional numbers,” he stated.

During the visit, Ruku reviewed the facility’s readiness to train 40,000 recruits in the coming year and underscored the importance of NYS colleges, both paramilitary and technical, as critical national assets.

He praised NYS for its significant role in shaping disciplined, service-oriented youth, describing the institution as a foundation for nation-building.

“The National Youth Service (NYS) paramilitary and technical colleges are critical infrastructure to the country due to the contribution to developing young people grounded in respect and discipline for public service and nation building,” Ruku said.

Beyond expansion plans, Ruku revealed that his ministry, in collaboration with NYS and other state departments, is working to commercialize the service. The goal is to make NYS more financially independent and capable of sustaining its operations.

“The commercial wing of NYS will be critical in the endeavour of making NYS a financially viable and strong institution to reduce its dependence on public coffers,” he added.