Youth from 107 islands aged 16-29 to join National Service

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the first batch for Maldives National Service has youth participation from 107 islands, with them being aged between 16 and 29 years. 

Upon the President's initiative, the program's first batch of 343 individuals left for training yesterday to Lh. Maafilaafushi.

President Muizzu wrote on social media last night stating that the 343 youths are the "selection of the first round" out of 1,242 applicants to the National Service Program.

As per the President, out of the 343 who have left to train at the military island of Maafilaafushi, 279 are men and 64 are women.

"I congratulate not only those who are undertaking the training, but their families as well," said the President.

The Defense Ministry has stated that the selection process for training covered a fitness test and medical test. The training period will last three months.

Every individual who takes part in the National Service Program will receive MVR 6,000 as a monthly allowance. A total amount of at least MVR 2.1 million will be spent on this by the government per month.

President Muizzu stated that the National Service Program aims to achieve the spiritual revival and pride of Maldivian patriotism within these individuals, for them to become Maldivians who adore Islam and to build capable individuals who will serve the nation during times of danger and crisis.

President Muizzu announced National Service training during last year's Victory Celebration ceremony in November.

The President stated then that more people were needed in order to conduct military operations the way he wanted to. At the time, he announced that a mandatory program will be introduced for individuals who do not achieve promising academic results and will be sent to join the military and the police once they turn 16 years of age.