News Desk
MALÉ, Maldives — President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu said the second group of participants in the government’s Maldives National Service has departed for training, advancing an initiative he has cast as central to strengthening youth development and national identity. He announced the departure on X after the group left Lh. Maafilaafushi.
The president said he was pleased that the three month program, which includes 350 participants, began on International Education Day. He described the training as an effort to help young Maldivians become “mentally and physically healthy.”
According to the government, the curriculum includes lessons in what officials call indigenous nationalism, responsible citizenship, religious education, and leadership. Participants also receive instruction in first aid, firefighting, swimming, and beach orientation.
“These youth will be interested in reviving the spirit of nationalism and pride by increasing their love for the pillars of religion and Islamic identity in their hearts,” President Muizzu said.
The program is overseen by the Ministry of Defence and was first announced by the president on Victory Day last year as part of a broader plan to cultivate what he described as a strong and disciplined generation. More than 1,200 young people applied for the initial round. The second cohort was selected in the order of registration and screened through interviews, medical checks, aptitude assessments, and fitness tests.
Officials said some of the 344 participants who completed the first round are now in B. Kihadhoo for technical training. President Muizzu wished the new group success as they began their program.
The Maldives National Service was formally launched at a ceremony in Maafilaafushi. Participants and instructors were recognized at the event, and the program’s flag was raised by the president.
Government figures show that 343 youths took part in the first round, including 64 women and 279 men between the ages of 16 and 29. They came from 107 islands and traveled to Maafilaafushi on September 17 for their initial training.
Officials say the program is intended to give young Maldivians opportunities to develop skills, discipline, and what the government describes as moral and spiritual grounding. They also argue that the initiative will increase the number of young people entering the labor force and contribute to a more productive population.
The government lists several objectives for the program, including fostering nationalism, preparing youth for national service during emergencies, and equipping them for careers in security services and the broader job market. The curriculum is also designed to encourage cooperation, discipline, and what officials describe as good character and respectful behavior.
The National Service Initial Training lasts three months and includes instruction on national identity, citizenship, religious studies, leadership, and language skills. Physical fitness sessions are part of the daily schedule, along with first aid, firefighting, self defense, and introductory military activities.
The Maldives National Service is a joint effort involving several ministries and state agencies. Officials say the program will expand in the coming years and that a dedicated National Service law is being prepared.
Vocational training is expected to be added as a new component. Participants who complete the initial phase will be able to pursue technical courses based on their interests and available placements.
