The Public Service Commission (PSC) is pleased to announce the recruitment of interns under the prestigious Public Service Internship Programme (PSIP) for the 2025/2026 Financial Year. This year-long internship initiative provides a golden opportunity for recent graduates to gain practical work experience within various public service institutions. The program targets Ministries, State Departments, State Agencies, Government Corporations, and Public Universities across Kenya.
Through this initiative, the PSC continues its commitment to youth empowerment by equipping graduates with vital workplace skills that are necessary for enhancing employability, promoting entrepreneurship, and expanding professional networks. Now in its eighth cohort, PSIP is widely recognized for its structured mentorship, learning, and development framework that prepares interns for meaningful engagement in the job market.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the internship programme, including eligibility requirements, detailed roles and responsibilities, duration, stipend details, and application procedures.
Overview of the Public Service Internship Programme (PSIP)
The Public Service Internship Programme (PSIP) is a flagship government initiative spearheaded by the Public Service Commission to prepare college and university graduates for the labor market. It offers graduates an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn the workings of the public sector while contributing to national development.
The 2025/2026 PSIP intake (Cohort 8) is open to eligible graduates across Kenya and will entail placement in a variety of institutions, including:
- Government Ministries
- State Departments
- State Agencies
- Government-Owned Corporations and Parastatals
- Public Universities
The main objective is to cultivate a pool of young professionals who are not only work-ready but also well-versed in public service values, professionalism, and good governance.
Requirements for Appointment
To qualify for this prestigious internship opportunity, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Be a holder of a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Be a recent graduate
- Demonstrate proficiency in computer applications and digital communication tools.
These requirements aim to ensure that interns are recent graduates who are eager to transition into the workforce, bring in fresh ideas, and adapt quickly to modern work environments.
Internship Duties and Responsibilities
Interns selected under the PSIP will be expected to perform a range of duties under the guidance of designated supervisors. While duties may vary slightly depending on the host institution and department, the general expectations include:
- Execution of Assigned Duties:
Interns will be expected to complete assignments and responsibilities as assigned and agreed upon with their supervisors. These duties will align with the institution’s core mandates and the intern’s field of academic training. - Documentation of Learning:
Interns will be required to maintain comprehensive records of the knowledge and skills acquired during their attachment. This process may involve the preparation of regular progress reports and a final report summarizing the experience gained. - Participation in Mentorship and Development Activities:
The programme includes structured mentorship, training, and development sessions designed to enhance the professional growth of interns. Active participation in such activities is mandatory and forms a key part of the internship assessment. - Support to Public Service Delivery:
Interns may be called upon to provide administrative, technical, or logistical support in line with the operations of the host department or agency. This allows interns to experience the dynamics of public service delivery in real-time. - Adherence to Public Service Ethics and Conduct:
Interns must maintain high levels of integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity, and comply with ethical and performance standards set by the Public Service Commission and their host institutions. - Learning Institutional Procedures:
Interns will be exposed to government regulations, operational systems, service charters, and internal controls that govern public service institutions in Kenya. - Research and Innovation Support:
Depending on the host institution, interns may participate in policy research, data collection, analysis, and development of innovative solutions to improve service delivery.
These roles are designed to offer a holistic experience, ensuring interns are well-prepared for future roles within or outside the public service.
Duration of the Internship
The internship programme will run for a non-renewable period of twelve (12) months. This full-year engagement allows interns adequate time to learn, adapt, and contribute meaningfully to their assigned institutions.
Upon completion, interns are expected to have acquired significant workplace competencies, enhanced their career readiness, and developed a deeper understanding of public service ethics, structure, and functions.
Stipend
Interns will be entitled to a monthly stipend, the amount of which will be determined and communicated by the Government. This stipend is intended to cater to daily commuting and basic subsistence expenses incurred during the internship.
Certificate of Completion
At the end of the internship, successful participants will receive an official Certificate of Internship Completion from the Public Service Commission. This certificate will serve as formal proof of having undertaken and completed the PSIP and can be a valuable addition to the intern’s CV or professional portfolio.
Application Process
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their applications through the online portal
Deadline for Application: 18th August 2025
Click here to Apply
Applicants are encouraged to complete their submissions well in advance of the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
It is advisable to read through the instructions on the application portal carefully and ensure all uploaded documents are clear and legible.
Important Notes
- The internship programme does not guarantee employment in the public service upon completion.
- Interns must be willing to serve in any institution or location across the country, depending on deployment by the Public Service Commission.
- Any form of canvassing or attempt to influence the selection process will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Applicants must ensure that their information is accurate and verifiable at the time of application.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Public Service Internship Programme offers immense benefits, including:
- Exposure to public sector working environments and systems
- Mentorship from experienced public servants and professionals
- Development of soft and technical skills applicable across industries
- An opportunity to contribute to national development through service
- Enhanced CV and increased employability in both public and private sectors
The experience gained through PSIP is particularly valuable for those considering a career in public administration, governance, policy, or community development. Even for those with other career aspirations, the program fosters adaptability, leadership, accountability, and critical thinking.
Takeaway
The Public Service Internship Programme remains one of the most transformative youth development initiatives in Kenya. As the PSC opens applications for Cohort 8, young graduates are encouraged to seize this chance to gain firsthand experience in government operations and contribute to meaningful public service delivery.
This year’s intake is expected to be highly competitive, and early applications are encouraged. If you meet the eligibility criteria, are passionate about service, and are eager to learn, this is your opportunity to step into Kenya’s public service and shape your career journey.
Apply Here
Deadline: 18th August 2025.
