CS Geoffrey Ruku Urges HR Professionals to Embrace AI, Support Youth Employment at IHRM Congress

The 11th Annual National Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) Congress was officially opened today 27 May 2025 by Hon. Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku, the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, with a rallying call to HR professionals to embrace technology and take a leading role in empowering Kenya’s youth.

Image: Cabinet Secretary for Public service, Human Capital Development and special programmes Hon. Geoffrey Ruku, during the opening of the IHRM in Mombasa.

Addressing hundreds of HR practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the country, CS Ruku lauded the evolving role of human resource management in both public and private sectors, noting that HR professionals are now more integral than ever to national development efforts.

“I appreciate the vital role HR professionals play in shaping a productive and ethical public service,” said the Cabinet Secretary. “Today, HR is not just about recruitment and payroll — it is about strategic leadership, workforce planning, and ensuring employees are mentally and emotionally supported.”

CS Ruku emphasized the importance of embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative tool in modern workforce management. “AI is here with us — and it is not the enemy. It is part of the solution to our employment challenges,” he stated. “We must use it responsibly to improve productivity, enhance transparency, and promote efficiency across all sectors. However, technology must be used for the right reasons, not for promoting hate or misinformation.”

The CS also touched on the rising issue of cyberbullying, particularly targeting public servants. “Members of Parliament and other public officers are experiencing unprecedented levels of cyberbullying, which, coupled with the pressures of public office, is leading to high levels of burnout,” he noted. “We must create a safe digital environment not only for politicians but for all workers.”

The congress, themed "Revolutionizing Human Capital in the Age of AI and Digital Transformation", comes at a time when organizations across the world are rapidly adopting digital solutions to manage their workforce. Ruku urged HR professionals to adapt to these changes, stating, “Technology should not intimidate us. It should inspire us. HR leaders must be the first to champion AI adoption in their organizations.”

Highlighting the government's focus on youth employment, the CS revealed that plans were underway to partner with the private sector to provide accommodation and internship opportunities for young people.

“I will personally visit private companies in the coming weeks to urge them to open up spaces for youth internships,” he said. “In the public sector, our resources are stretched, but with the support of HR managers, we can find innovative ways to engage our youth and give them meaningful work experiences.”

Ruku emphasized that the success of these initiatives heavily relies on the cooperation of HR departments across the country. “This cannot succeed unless HR professionals are fully on board. From next week, we are beginning a coordinated approach to implement youth-focused internship programmes,” he said. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the youth are not left behind. HRs, your leadership is needed now more than ever.”

The CS concluded his remarks with a call to action: “Let us not wait for change. Let us lead it. Let us empower our youth, embrace technology, and build a workforce that is ready for the future.”

The IHRM Congress continues throughout the week with panel discussions, training sessions, and networking forums focusing on topics such as AI in HR analytics, employee mental health, inclusive workplace policies, and future skills development.