President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that participants of the National Patriotic Service will develop into mentally and physically healthy individuals.
The President made the remarks in a message shared on social media following the departure of participants of the second round of the National Patriotic Service for training.
In his message, President Muizzu said the participants of the second round have departed with the noble objective of building a green future for the youth, who represent the future of the nation. He said the second round of the three-month National Service Initial Training, involving 350 youths, will be officially launched on International Education Day.
The President said the training programme includes components such as patriotism, responsible citizenship, religious education, leadership skills, first aid, firefighting, physical fitness, swimming and ocean familiarisation, along with field activities and several other practical and beneficial sessions.
He noted that throughout the training period, participants will be encouraged to revive the spirit and pride of nationalism by strengthening their love for the pillars of religion and Islamic values.
President Muizzu said special priority will be given to developing the participants into productive and responsible individuals with strong moral character, good behaviour, and essential life skills. He also wished success to all participants taking part in the programme.
The National Patriotic Service Training Programme was introduced to build a strong generation of youth who embrace nationalism and maintain mental and physical wellbeing. The programme was announced by the President on Victory Day last year.
Opportunities for the second round of the programme were offered based on the order of registration among applicants from the first round. More than 1,200 youths applied during the two months following the opening of applications for the first round of the programme.
As part of the selection process, applicants underwent interviews, medical examinations, aptitude tests and fitness assessments.
Meanwhile, some of the 344 youths who graduated from the first round of the programme are currently continuing their training under the National Service Technical Programme in Kihaadhoo.