The Ministry of Defence has opened applications to recruit youth for the National Service Programme.

Youth between the ages of 16 and 28 are eligible to participate in the programme. Those under 18 years of age must submit a no-objection declaration from their parents with the application, and all participants must be in good health

The National Service Programme is a special initiative by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to nurture a generation of youth who are disciplined, strong, and well-trained.

The National Service Programme is designed to revive national spirit and patriotism among youth, nurture a people with a deep appreciation for Islam, build a community that would readily face national service in times of danger or crisis, facilitate recruitment and training of youth needed to increase the strength of the security forces, and instil the values of camaraderie, cooperation, discipline and ethics, mutual respect and forbearance in words and actions among Maldivian youth.

Announcing the National Service Programme at the official ceremony to commemorate Victory Day 2024, the President described his vision for a skilled youth population who can contribute meaningfully to the nation. In this year’s Presidential Address, he announced preparations were underway to launch the service in April.

All individuals recruited into the programme will receive an allowance from the outset.

Application forms are now available for download from the Ministry of Defence website.