President William Ruto has announced that civil servants who successfully mentor young people under the President’s Award Scheme will now be considered for promotion within the public service.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday, the President said the government, through the Public Service Commission (PSC), will give preference to public servants who dedicate time to mentoring youth enrolled in the national youth development programme.
Ruto noted that as the government creates opportunities in the public service, it will also recognise mentors, including teachers and other civil servants, for their role in nurturing young people who complete the scheme, especially gold awardees.
Currently, promotions in the public service are mainly based on merit, performance appraisals and length of service, with recommendations forwarded to the PSC after annual staff reviews. Competitive selection and policy considerations such as affirmative action may also apply, particularly for senior positions.
The President’s Award Scheme targets youth aged between 14 and 24 and focuses on community service, skills development, physical recreation and adventurous journeys. Participants earn bronze, silver or gold awards, which are recognised both locally and internationally.
