President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday directed the National Youth Service to hasten its commercialisation agenda - an endeavour that would see the institution generate more revenue.
Speaking during the pass-out parade at the NYS College in Gilgil, the Head of State noted that the organization would be essential in the realization of the Big 4 agenda adding that it had energetic, intelligent young men and women who were ready to work.
"To meet the demands of the country, skilled men and women in the technical competencies are absolutely vital. I have directed the National Youth Service to hasten its commercialization agenda.
"This will ensure it effectively contributes to the realization of the Big 4 Agenda, especially in the pillars of manufacturing and food security," he stated.
President Kenyatta conveyed that the uniforms of the defence forces were being produced by the service under his directive and the police service uniforms would now be made by the NYS going forward.
"NYS has the most critical factor in production, as it has the capacity to train market-ready graduates who have the required skills.
"We do not champion the cause of youth opportunity and hope as a favour to them, but rather as the necessary, undeniable, embrace of our collective future. That’s why we’re called to give each one of our children the chance to make the most of their talents.
Affirming his commitment to the war against corruption, Uhuru stated that the government was determined to recover all the money looted from the Service and the culprits made to pay the price.
"No individual will get away with embezzling public resources. Everyone who has pocketed funds meant for empowering our young men and women at the The National Youth Service must be held accountable. We have invested in the development of this nation, not for self-gain," he stated.
He stated that the government was implementing a raft of measures to reposition NYS to deliver on its mandate with a high sense of integrity as it empowers more youth.
