Hundreds of frustrated youth were left stranded outside Eldoret Polytechnic in Uasin Gishu County on Thursday after showing up for a foreign job recruitment exercise that never took place.
The recruitment had been advertised by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, leading hopeful job seekers to gather as early as 5 a.m.
However, security personnel at the institution informed them that there was no such recruitment happening, sparking anger and disappointment among the attendees.
Labour CS Dr. Alfred Mutua gestures as he addresses a gathering. Photo: Alfred Mutua Source: Instagram
Many of them had traveled long distances, spending scarce resources on transport, only to be turned away with no explanation.
Chepkarai Marius from Kesses sub-county expressed his frustration, accusing the government of misleading unemployed youth.
“It is very frustrating; some of us have come from far, and our parents had to sell chicken to get us bus fare. Can President William Ruto address this issue? Is it a real government initiative, or is it fake?” he questioned.
This incident follows a similar case in Kisii County just a week ago, where over 200 youth gathered at Kisii National Polytechnic for another government-advertised recruitment exercise, only to find no officials present.
Labour CS Dr. Alfred Mutua follows keenly as one of govt officials address a gathering. Photo: Tuko Source: IG
In response to the outcry, Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua clarified that the ministry had issued a notice in early yesterday, putting the today’s recruitment process on hold.
He explained that the government needed to finalize the processing of initial job offers in pilot counties before rolling out new recruitment dates.
Despite this explanation, the affected youth are demanding better communication and accountability from the government to avoid further disappointments.
Many are calling for clear updates and verification of job postings to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
