Junior Secondary School (JSS) interns in Kirinyaga have called on the government to uphold its commitment to confirm them as permanent employees, urging that funds designated for this purpose not be diverted. Their request comes amid growing concerns that only 26,000 out of the promised 46,000 interns might be confirmed, as suggested by Ndindi Nyoro.
Moses Gachoki, a spokesperson for the JSS teachers, emphasized the importance of adhering to President William Ruto’s recent promise. Speaking on Sunday, President Ruto assured that all 46,000 JSS interns would be confirmed and employed on a permanent basis, a declaration made in the presence of religious leaders and the public in Nyahururu.
“The president is the final authority, and no other employee should go against his word,” stated Gachoki. He specifically addressed Ndindi Nyoro, urging him to refrain from redirecting the allocated funds to other uses. “The president did say before God and men of God while in Nyahururu that the 46,000 JSS interns will be confirmed and employed on a permanent basis. Our main issue is with Ndindi Nyoro who wants to divert the money to other uses; we are telling him not to touch it,” said Gachoki.
Another intern, Martin Njue, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of protecting the clause that holds the confirmation money. “We are appealing to Parliament not to deduct, divert, or transfer the confirmation funds,” he added.
However, their appeal appears to have been overtaken by events. The Finance Bill, which had budgeted for the confirmation of the JSS interns, has already been rejected by the president. This development leaves the interns in a state of uncertainty, as they await further clarification and action from the government.
The interns’ plea highlights the broader issue of job security and the need for transparent and consistent government policies. As they continue to advocate for their promised permanent employment, the JSS interns in Kirinyaga serve as a reminder of the importance of fulfilling commitments made to public servants, ensuring that their dedication and hard work are duly recognized and rewarded.