The Minister of Defence and National Service, Hassan Rasheed has reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring that every young person in the Maldives who wishes to participate in the National Service Programme has the opportunity to do so.
The Minister delivered this assurance during the graduation ceremony of the second batch of the national service programme, held at the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Composite Training Centre in Maafilaafushi, Lhaviyani Atoll.
Addressing the graduating cohort of 344 students who successfully completed the intensive three-month training programme, Minister Hassan Rasheed highlighted the significant progress achieved since President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced the initiative in 2024.
The programme, which was officially launched on 1 October last year, represents a concerted effort to revive the spirit of nationalism and pride among the nation's youth while equipping them with essential life skills.
"This is a successful programme, and we are committed to providing opportunities to all young people who wish to participate," Minister Hassan Rasheed said.
The Minister revealed that two additional batches, each comprising 350 students, will be conducted for the remainder of this year, demonstrating the government's sustained investment in the programme's expansion and accessibility across the islands.
The second batch commenced training on 31 January, drawing 350 participants from 112 islands across the Maldives. Of these, 344 participants successfully completed the programme, representing a remarkable commitment from young Maldivians representing the nation's diverse geographic area. The graduation ceremony featured a formal resolution and a march of honour, celebrating the accomplishments of the graduates who have undergone comprehensive initial training designed to transform them into responsible citizens and capable individuals.
Minister Hassan Rasheed urged the graduates to honour the expectations of their parents and communities while making meaningful contributions to society. He emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation among citizens regardless of their varying living conditions, encouraging the graduates to apply the skills and training they have acquired throughout the programme.
"It is important not to respond negatively to undesirable things in society. Instead, take advantage of the training you have received to build a better future for yourselves and your country. I wish all young people a bright and successful future,” he advised.
The National Service Initial Training programme encompasses a holistic curriculum designed to develop well-rounded individuals. Students receive instruction across multiple domains, including Maldivian nationalism and responsible citizenship, religious education emphasising the significance of prayer and spiritual well-being, leadership development, and language proficiency. Physical fitness forms a core component of the training, with exercise and activities conducted to promote health and overall well-being among participants.
Beyond academic and physical training, the programme provides practical life skills that graduates can immediately apply in their daily lives. Training in first aid, fire fighting techniques, and self-defense equips participants with the capability to respond effectively in emergency situations. Additionally, students receive instruction in peer education methodologies, camp activities, and foundational military training, all of which contribute to their personal development and civic readiness.
Upon completion of the programme, graduates received multiple certifications recognising their achievements and newly acquired competencies. These include the Certificate of Completion of National Service Initial Training, Certificate 3 in Civil Education and Leadership, Community Volunteer Fire Fighter certification, Basic First Aid certification, and a certificate of completion of the Peer Education Training Programme. Those seeking further technical training will have the opportunity to complete the National Service Technical Programme at the Technical and Vocational Centre in Kihaadhoo, Baa Atoll.
Students who were not selected for the current second round will be offered employment positions aligned with their areas of interest, ensuring that their participation in the selection process yields tangible opportunities for career development and national service.
Before concluding his address, Minister Hassan Rasheed took a moment to honour the memory of Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahdi, who tragically lost his life while conducting search operations for four missing Italian divers. The Minister described him as a brave individual of whom the entire nation can be proud, using the occasion to remind graduates of selfless service and dedication.