As youths across the country continue grappling with rising unemployment and an evolving digital job market, the government is now pushing for a more accountable, tech-driven and merit-based public service.
Speaking during the 12th HR Conference in Mombasa, Principal Administrative Secretary Wekesa Boga said the future of public service depends on strong human resource systems capable of withstanding external interference while embracing digital transformation.
Boga noted that HR professionals must now position themselves as strategic leaders who can create opportunities for young people through skills development, digital governance and innovative workforce planning.
In a separate address, National Chairman of the Institute of Human Resource Management Odero Philips challenged HR practitioners to remain agile amid rapid advancements in artificial intelligence.
He warned that youths entering the job market risk being left behind if institutions fail to align training, recruitment and professional development with current technological demands. Odero maintained that accountability, fairness and competence in public service hiring processes remain key to restoring trust among job-seeking youths.
Meanwhile, IHRM Executive Director Quresha Abdullahi emphasized the need for modern HR policies that can support a fast-changing digital economy. She said the public service must create an environment where young professionals can thrive through merit-based recruitment, continuous learning and digital skills empowerment.
Quresha added that HR leaders have a responsibility to prepare the next generation for future jobs that will heavily rely on technology, data management and digital governance systems.
On his part, KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto said state institutions must adopt innovation and efficiency to remain competitive in a rapidly changing world. He noted that young people are looking up to public institutions for employment opportunities, and therefore transparency, accountability and digital readiness must be prioritized.
Captain Ruto further called on HR professionals to champion ethical leadership and build systems that promote equal opportunities for all qualified youths seeking to join the public service.
