Over 300 youths begin national service training in Maldives
According to the government, 1,200 applications were received, of which 343 candidates were selected.
More than 300 youths selected for the first round of the National Service Programme have departed for training, the government confirmed on Monday.
The programme, launched in May, aims to provide opportunities for young people aged between 16 and 29 who face challenges in pursuing further education or securing employment.
According to the government, 1,200 applications were received, of which 343 candidates were selected. The first group includes 64 female and 279 male participants from 107 islands.
President Mohamed Muizzu met the participants and their families before they left for training, which is being conducted in Lh. Maafilaafushi.
The government has outlined several objectives for the programme, including:
-
Strengthening the spirit of nationalism and building citizens who value Islam.
-
Preparing youth to contribute during national threats and disasters.
-
Creating pathways for participants to join the security services, including the army and police.
-
Developing young citizens with discipline, respect, and teamwork.
-
Equipping participants with practical life skills.
-
Promoting physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
Participants will receive an allowance from the date of their service.
President Muizzu previously announced that MVR 400 million would be allocated annually for the programme. Speaking at last year’s Victory Day ceremony, he said military training would be compulsory for participants, and those completing the programme would be eligible to serve as police or military officers.
The government expects the programme to add around 5,000 officers to the country’s security forces over the next four years.
