What Does Internship Mean?
An internship is a period of work experience offered by an employer to students or recent graduates. The word comes from the Latin "internus" meaning "inside" — literally, being inside an organization to learn.
🇰🇪 In Kenya: The term "internship" is often used interchangeably with "attachment," though there are important legal differences. The government defines internships through various policies including the Public Service Commission Internship Programme.
Internships serve multiple purposes:
- For students: Gain practical experience, apply academic knowledge, fulfill degree requirements
- For graduates: Build professional skills, enhance employability, create networks
- For employers: Identify future talent, complete short-term projects, contribute to workforce development
🇰🇪 Kenyan Context
In Kenya, internships are governed by various regulations including the Employment Act, university policies, and specific government programmes like the Presidential Internship Programme.
🌍 International Context
Globally, internships are recognized as a bridge between education and employment, with many countries having specific laws protecting intern rights.
Legal Definition of Internship in Kenya
⚖️ According to Kenyan Law
The Kenyan Employment Act 2007 does not explicitly define "internship." However, the Public Service Commission Internship Policy defines an internship as: "A programme designed to provide on-the-job training and experience to unemployed Kenyan graduates for a period of up to twelve months."
Key Legal Characteristics
- Temporary nature: Usually 3-12 months, not permanent employment
- Training component: Must include learning and skill development
- Supervision: Interns work under guidance of experienced professionals
- No guarantee of employment: Internships don't guarantee a job afterward
Government Definition
The Public Service Commission (PSC) defines internship as: "A programme that offers graduates an opportunity to acquire practical skills and experience in their areas of specialization." PSC interns receive a monthly stipend (currently KES 25,000) and are placed in ministries and parastatals.
Types of Internships in Kenya
By Status
- Attachment: For students still in school, required for graduation
- Graduate Internship: For those who have completed studies
By Compensation
- Paid internships: Receive monthly stipend (KES 15,000 - 150,000)
- Unpaid internships: No payment, may get transport allowance
By Sector
- Government internships: Through PSC, ministries, parastatals
- Private sector: Companies, banks, tech firms
- NGO/UN internships: Development organizations, UN agencies
- Research internships: Universities, KEMRI, research institutions
Internship vs Attachment: What's the Difference?
| Aspect | Attachment | Internship |
|---|---|---|
| Who | Current students | Graduates (recent or not) |
| Purpose | Fulfill academic requirements | Gain work experience, build skills |
| Duration | Usually 3 months (fixed) | 3-12 months (flexible) |
| Payment | Often unpaid | Often paid (stipend) |
| Documentation | Logbook from university | Internship contract/letter |
| Examples | University student at KRA for 3 months | Graduate at UNON for 6 months |
Know Your Rights as an Intern
Get our free guide to intern rights and what to expect from employers.
Rights of Interns in Kenya
While interns aren't always covered by the full Employment Act, they have important rights:
What Interns Are Entitled To
- Safe working environment: Workplace safety applies to everyone
- Fair treatment: Protection from harassment and discrimination
- Learning opportunity: Should receive meaningful work and supervision
- Contract/agreement: Written terms of internship (duration, hours, stipend if any)
- Certificate of completion: Proof of internship experience
What the Law Says
The Employment Act 2007 doesn't explicitly cover interns, but the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) applies to all workers including interns. The Industrial Training Act also recognizes the importance of workplace training.
💡 Important: If you're doing the work of a regular employee without pay, you may be entitled to claim employment rights. Seek legal advice if you believe you're being exploited.
Payment and Stipends for Interns
Is Payment Required by Law?
There is no Kenyan law that requires employers to pay interns. However, the government and many reputable companies choose to pay stipends to support interns.
Typical Stipend Ranges
- Government internships (PSC): KES 25,000/month
- KRA and parastatals: KES 25,000 - 65,000/month
- Banks: KES 20,000 - 45,000/month
- UN agencies: KES 60,000 - 150,000/month
- Tech companies: KES 35,000 - 90,000/month
- NGOs: KES 20,000 - 80,000/month
👉 See our Companies That Pay page for 100+ employers with verified stipend amounts.