The third batch of the Maldives National Service programme has been officially launched.

The programme was inaugurated by Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy at a ceremony held at the Composite Training Centre in Lhaviyani Maafilaafushi. A total of 352 cadets from 112 islands are participating in the 15-week training programme, including 288 male cadets and 64 female cadets.

During the ceremony, Acting Chief Instructor of the National Service Initial Training Centre Captain Mohamed Husham Moosa administered the pledge to instructors, while Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Shahid administered the oath to the cadets.

The Maldives National Service programme was introduced under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's initiative to develop a responsible and disciplined generation of youth. The programme includes character and leadership development, first aid, firefighting, self-defence, camp activities and an introduction to military training.

Upon completion of the programme, participants will receive certificates in National Service Initial Training, Civil Education and Leadership Level 3, Community Volunteer Firefighting, Basic First Aid and the Peer Education Training Programme.