Technical training programme begins for second national service batch

The technical training phase of the government's National Service programme commenced on Friday with 75 participants from across the Maldives.

The National Service programme, known as Vathanee Khidhumaiy, was introduced in October last year to provide training and employment pathways for young people who face challenges entering the workforce or pursuing further education after completing school.

According to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), 343 participants completed the foundational phase of the second batch of the programme. Of those, 77 expressed interest in continuing to the technical training stage, with 75 enrolling in the programme.

The MNDF said the second technical training course officially began during a ceremony held in B. Kihadhoo.

The event was attended by Chief of Defence Force Ibrahim Hilmy. During the ceremony, participants took an oath and renewed their commitment to the programme.

The oath was administered by Captain Mohamed Shareef, Executive Officer of the School of Engineering and Logistics, while Major Hussain Shahid, Commanding Officer of the School of Engineering and Logistics, led participants in renewing their pledge.

According to the MNDF, the programme includes 75 participants representing 17 atolls. The cohort consists of 62 men and 13 women.

The 16-week course covers a range of technical fields, including automobile engineering, marine engineering, electrical work, refrigeration, welding, metal fabrication and office management.

The MNDF stated that participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a Level 3 Certificate approved by the Maldives Qualifications Authority.

Training will be delivered by instructors from the military with experience in technical and engineering disciplines.

The technical training programme forms part of the broader National Service initiative aimed at equipping participants with skills that can support future employment opportunities.