Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy has urged students joining the fourth batch of the National Service Programme to demonstrate determination and achieve positive results, emphasising the Government's commitment to their training.
Addressing the incoming trainees at MNDF headquarters, Kalhuthuh'kalaa Koshi, Major General Hilmy welcomed their initiative in joining the programme.
He explained that the programme, introduced under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, aims to develop skilled, disciplined and patriotic young people with strong moral values. Basic National Service training marks the first stage of that effort.
Major General Hilmy highlighted the importance the Government and the Maldives National Defence Force attach to the programme, noting their extensive preparations to provide participants with the necessary facilities and support.
He encouraged trainees to make full use of the opportunity, remain determined and work towards fulfilling their own aspirations and those of their parents.
The Chief of Defence Force also confirmed that the Maldives National Defence Force would take responsibility for the students' welfare, discipline and skills development throughout the four-month programme.
The National Service Programme began on 1 October 2025. Since then, three batches comprising 1,028 students have completed basic training, while two batches comprising 136 students have undergone technical training.
National Service basic training commences for 351 fourth-batch participants
The fourth batch of the National Service Programme has commenced basic training with 351 participants, comprising 287 males and 64 females aged between 16 and 28.
The participants, representing 126 islands across the Maldives' 20 atolls, have departed for the 14-week programme at the Maldives National Defence Force Composite Training Centre on Maafilaafushi in Lhaviyani Atoll.
National Service Initial Training introduces new participants to Maldivian national identity, responsible citizenship, religious education, ethics and conduct, leadership, physical fitness and practical life skills.
The programme aims to develop confident, responsible young people with strong religious beliefs, spiritual and physical well-being, and a commitment to Maldivian national identity. The Government considers its continued implementation a key youth development policy.
Participants who complete the programme will receive a National Service Initial Training certificate. Those completing the relevant components will also receive certificates in Civic Education and Leadership, Community Volunteer Fire Fighter, Basic First Aid and Peer Education Training.