President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that participants in the National Service Programme are expected to develop into mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy individuals, as the second intake of the programme commenced with the departure of recruits for training in Lhaviyani Maafilaafushi.

In a post shared on X on Saturday, the President said that selected participants from the second round had departed to begin their initial training. He expressed gratitude for the commencement of the three-month programme, noting that its launch coincided with the International Day of Education.

A total of 350 youth — 286 males and 64 females — from 112 islands departed to undergo training at the Maldives National Defence Force Composite Training Centre in Maafilaafushi. The programme includes instruction in patriotism, responsible citizenship, religious education, leadership, first aid, firefighting, physical fitness, swimming, beach familiarisation and field activities.

President Dr Muizzu noted that the programme places strong emphasis on instilling Islamic values, national pride and discipline, while equipping participants with essential life skills. He said priority is given to nurturing creative, responsible and well-mannered individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to society. The President also extended his best wishes to all participants for the successful completion of their training.

The second intake follows the completion of the first batch of the programme, which ran from 27 September to 28 December 2025 and involved 350 youths from 108 islands. Of those participants, 344 successfully completed the programme, with 66 graduates opting to continue into technical and vocational training.

Upon completion of the National Service initial training and required modules, participants will receive several certifications, including a Certificate of Completion of National Service Initial Training, Certificate III in Civic Education and Leadership, Community Volunteer Firefighter certification, Basic First Aid certification, and a certificate of completion for participants of the peer education programme Eku Ekee.

The National Service Programme is a flagship Government initiative aimed at empowering young people through structured training, education and civic engagement. President Dr Muizzu has previously stated that the programme will be conducted annually from 2025 onwards.