MP calls for military training before state jobs

Hulhumale North MP Hussain Shareef on Tuesday called for compulsory military training for school leavers before they are given government jobs, during a debate in the Parliament of Maldives on a government employment bill.

Speaking during the sitting, the PNC member said the public does not receive adequate service from government offices. He stated that letters sent by members of the public can go unanswered for months. He also said phone calls made to offices are transferred between employees without providing clarification.

Hussain noted that a large share of the state budget is spent each year on salaries and operating costs. He questioned whether the public receives services that match that expenditure.

“About 90% of the country’s revenue is being spent on running costs by allocating different allowances, positions and jobs at the head level… [but] everywhere you look, you hear complaints,” he said.

He said government posts require people who meet standards of conduct, including respect, loyalty and punctuality.

Hussain said that if the government provides jobs to A-level and O-level students in Maldives, they should first be sent for behavioural training in the form of military training.

Referring to the past, he said that around 20 years ago students of Mauhadh were regarded as well behaved, but he does not see the same conduct now.

“When our children come with certificates in high distinction, is that happening to them in the workplace and in their nurturing lives? We have to look at that,” he said.

He said the issue could be addressed by providing military training to school leavers before they enter government service.