MP discusses proposed bill on interns hiring and pay

Employers offering internship programs might soon be compelled to pay young people if a new Bill is passed.

Details emerged stating that the National Assembly might also compel employers to hire interns if the company has more than 50 employees.

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa who proposed the new law, argued that it should be mandatory for all public and private organisations that have over 50 employees to absorb interns.

Proposal

In the proposal, Mr Barasa seeks to amend section 76 of the Employment Act (2007), wants employers to pay a minimum wage to the interns they take in. 

Part of the Bill states: “An employer who employs more than fifty employees shall offer an internship to applicants who have attained a diploma, undergraduate and post-graduate qualifications.”

The bill adds: “The employer must ensure that the number of applicants offered internship is equivalent to five percent of the total employer’s workforce.”

Internship compliance

According to the proposal, which has been submitted to Speaker Justin Muturi and is awaiting formal introduction in the floor, employers will be required to maintain the interns throughout the year.

Employers will be required to file an annual internship compliance returns with the Director of Employment.