The Maldives has officially launched its National Service Program, with the first group of participants departing today for training. A total of 340 individuals—aged between 16 and 28—left for Lh. Maafilaafushi, where they will undergo a three-month program supervised by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
The government opened applications for the initiative in April, drawing interest from 1,244 young people across the country. After a rigorous selection process, which included interviews, medical checks, and fitness tests, 350 candidates were chosen. The participants come from Shaviyani Funadhoo, Noonu Manadhoo, and Thaa Veymandoo.
According to the Ministry of Defence, this first batch marks the beginning of the program’s broader rollout, which aims to train and prepare Maldivian youth for service opportunities.
The National Service Program was first introduced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who has repeatedly emphasized the need to strengthen both the military and police forces. Speaking during last year’s Victory Day celebrations, he noted that the nation required more manpower to carry out security operations effectively.
At the time, President Muizzu announced plans to make national service mandatory for youth who do not achieve promising academic results, beginning at age 16. His administration has also outlined a goal of recruiting 1,000 new personnel for the military annually, in addition to another 1,000 for the police over the next four years.
Participants in the program will receive a monthly allowance of MVR 6,000. This translates to at least MVR 1.2 million in monthly expenditure by the state to support the initiative.
Officials say the program not only strengthens national defense and security but also provides valuable discipline, skills, and career pathways for young Maldivians.
