President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has revealed that more than 600 young individuals have applied to join the government’s newly launched National Service Program, aimed at supporting school leavers and unemployed youth.
Speaking at the ratification ceremony of the “Prevention of Gang-Related and Other Dangerous Crimes” bill, President Muizzu said that as of now, 658 applications have been submitted, including 316 minors under 18 who applied with parental consent. The application deadline is set for the first day of next month.
The National Service Program targets O-level graduates who do not pursue A-levels and young people facing challenges in securing employment. Open to individuals aged 16 to 28, those between 16 and 18 must submit written parental consent with their application.
Originally announced during last year’s Victory Day ceremony, the government has allocated MVR 400 million in this year’s state budget for the program. Over the next four years, the initiative aims to recruit 1,000 youth annually into the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and 250 into the Maldives Police Service, totaling 5,000 recruits.
Participants will undergo military training before being deployed as officers in the police or military. The program aims to equip young Maldivians with discipline, skills, and career opportunities, transforming them into productive and responsible citizens.