Applications have been opened for the third batch of the National Service Initial Training programme.

The Ministry of Defence stated that the opportunity has been opened to all eligible youth interested in joining the Maldives National Service.

Applicants must be between 16 and 28 years of age. Individuals under the age of 18 may participate in the programme only if there is no objection from their legal guardian. Applicants are also required to be in good health.

The training programme will run for three months and is scheduled to begin in the last week of May. Training will be conducted at the MNDF Composite Training Centre in Lhaviyani Maafilafushi.

Participants will be selected through a process that includes interviews, an aptitude test, physical screening and medical screening. Those selected for the programme will receive an allowance starting from the day they enrol in the service.

Upon completion of the National Service Initial Training, participants will also be offered opportunities for vocational training and employment.

The deadline to submit application forms is 5 April at 2:00 p.m. Applications can be submitted by emailing [email protected] or by submitting forms to the Ministry of Defence during official working hours.

The first batch of the programme saw 344 youth graduate, with 65 of them going on to begin technical training.

The National Service Programme is a flagship Government initiative focused on empowering young people through structured training, education and civic engagement.