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How to join NIS with a certificate, diploma or degree

Here is a step-by-step guide to pursuing a career in the highly secretive National Intelligence Service.
NIS headquarters in Nairobi
NIS headquarters in Nairobi

Within the realm of the Kenyan government, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) stands as a symbol of mystery, intrigue, and utmost secrecy. 

The NIS is a vital institution responsible for safeguarding the nation's security, intelligence, and counterintelligence operations. 

Joining this elusive organization requires a combination of unwavering dedication, exceptional skills, and a deep commitment to serving the nation. 

The NIS operates covertly and collaborates with other national security agencies to ensure the country's safety. 

The agency focuses on counterintelligence, counterterrorism, and counterespionage efforts, among other critical areas.

Professions recruited at NIS

The wide range of NIS activities makes it imperative that employees possess a variety of academic backgrounds and abilities. 

The NIS needs expertise from various professional backgrounds including engineers, lawyers, scientists, communication technicians, and other specialists to operate effectively.

However, NIS does not announce mass recruitments such as other security agencies but rather invites Kenyans to create a profile within the NIS career networks. 

NIS regularly head hunts candidates for upcoming NIS career opportunities. 

READ: Ruto nominates Noordin Haji for NIS Director-General job

By creating a profile in the NIS career portal, you are not applying to an NIS position, rather, you are submitting your interest to work with the service. 

Your profile will be considered whenever positions arise within the service. Based on your profile information you may receive direct communication from the NIS to take further action,” the NIS says on its website. 

Qualifications to work in NIS

The NIS recruits Kenyans with degrees, diplomas and certificates for various roles within the service. 

Graduate Trainees

Kenyan degree holders wishing to join the NIS should meet the following requirements.

  1. Prospective candidates must be aged between 22-31 years. 
  2. Be in possession of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), mean grade C+ (plus) or its equivalent. 
  3. Be in possession of a degree from a recognized institution. 
  4. Must be a Kenyan citizen without a criminal record and is physically fit.

READ: The Role NIS played in Kiunjuri's sacking

Diploma Trainees

Kenyan diploma holders wishing to join the NIS should meet the following requirements.

  1. Prospective candidates must be aged between 20-30 years. 
  2. Be in possession of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), mean grade C (plain) or its equivalent. 
  3. Be in possession of a college diploma, earned over at least 18 months of study in a recognized institution. 
  4. Must be a Kenyan citizen without a criminal record and is physically fit.

Certificate Trainees

Kenyan certificate holders wishing to join the NIS should meet the following requirements.

  1. Prospective candidates must be aged between 20-26 years. 
  2. Be in possession of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), mean grade D+ or its equivalent. 
  3. Be in possession of a relevant Certificate from a recognized institution, covering at least 6 months of study. 
  4. Must be a Kenyan citizen without a criminal record and is physically fit.

Background Checks

Extensive background checks are conducted on all candidates to ensure their suitability for employment in the intelligence field. 

This process includes scrutinizing an applicant's criminal record, financial history, and personal associations.

Once selected, candidates undergo comprehensive training to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge required for intelligence operations.

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