Kenya recruitment · 2 min read
NYS recruitment in Kenya: who qualifies and how the intake works
The requirements in the March 2026 National Youth Service recruitment notice, what to bring, where you report, and who gets special consideration.
The National Youth Service recruits volunteer servicemen and servicewomen in a single nationwide exercise held in every sub-county on fixed days. For many young people with KCSE it is a route into training and later into the disciplined services. Here is what the March 2026 notice required.
The requirements in the March 2026 notice
- Kenyan citizen and a resident of the sub-county where you apply.
- Aged 18 to 24.
- KCSE mean grade of at least D plain.
- Original national ID and academic certificates, plus one set of photocopies to hand in.
- A valid certificate of good conduct from the DCI.
- Willing to undergo a medical examination, basic paramilitary training, and voluntary service anywhere in Kenya.
Who gets special consideration
- Orphans who meet the requirements, with documentary proof such as parents' death certificates or burial permits.
- Applicants with demonstrated sports skills and talents.
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to take part if they can withstand the physical training.
How the exercise runs
The 2026 exercise ran from 16 to 21 March, from 8 a.m. each day, with a list of recruitment centres for each sub-county and date. Successful candidates report to the NYS Paramilitary Academy in Gilgil or the NYS Technical Training Institute in Naivasha on the dates in their calling letters.
The next notice will list new dates and centres. Find the centre for your sub-county and go on the day listed for it.
No payment, no canvassing
The NYS notice says canvassing or offering money or other inducements for admission is an offence that may lead to disqualification or prosecution, and asks the public to report it to the Commandant General.
Get your certificate of good conduct well before the recruitment week, because it is a requirement on the day.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the requirements to join NYS?
In the March 2026 notice: Kenyan citizen resident in the sub-county, aged 18 to 24, KCSE D plain or better, original ID and certificates with copies, and a valid certificate of good conduct.
Where do NYS recruits go after selection?
To the NYS Paramilitary Academy in Gilgil or the NYS Technical Training Institute in Naivasha, as stated in their calling letters.
Do I pay to join NYS?
No. The notice says offering money or other inducements for admission is an offence.