President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised that raising a generation of patriotic young people is far more important than any infrastructural development. He made the statement while speaking at a ceremony to inaugurate the Maldives National Service, held at the Composite Training Centre (CTC) in Maafilaafushi.
Speaking at the ceremony, the President stressed that true national development can only be achieved by nurturing a strong and dynamic younger generation. He emphasised that raising a generation of patriotic, honourable, and capable youth who value Islam and their national identity is of far greater importance than building even a fifty-storey tower.
The President urged participants to regard the training as an opportunity to secure a brighter future and to realise their personal growth. He further noted that, upon completion of the programme, participants would emerge with discipline, a deepened sense of national identity, and devotion to Islam.
“What we begin today is historic work — a very important page in nation-building,” the President stated.
Highlighting the strong interest among young Maldivians, the President expressed confidence that the Maldives National Service would continue to grow. He expressed hope that the government’s target of training 5,000 youth would be reached soon.
To commemorate the occasion, the President formally handed over the Flag of the Maldives National Service.
The President announced the Maldives National Service Programme on Victory Day last year. A total of 1,242 youth applied for the Maldives National Service training this year. From these, 343 participants were selected in the first round of the process and departed for training on Wednesday. The selected group comprises 64 females and 279 males, aged between 16 and 29 years, representing 107 islands across the Maldives.
The objectives of the Maldives National Service include:
1. To revive and strengthen nationalism and instil pride in Maldivian identity, faith, and heritage.
2. To develop citizens who are prepared to serve the nation during times of major threats and disasters.
3. To train and prepare youth for potential careers and to facilitate recruitment for national security services.
4. To build Maldivian youth as individuals who have ingrained the characteristics of working together in unity, with good morals and conduct, respectful and patient in both action and speech
5. To equip Maldivian youth with essential life skills to become productive and responsible citizens.
6. To make Maldivian youth spiritually, mentally, and physically healthy and fit individuals
The Maldives National Service aims to cultivate Maldivian citizens who uphold national identity, demonstrate responsibility, and are physically fit, spiritually grounded, and mentally resilient. The three-month Initial Training Programme encompasses instruction in national identity, responsible citizenship, education, leadership, and language proficiency, together with physical training, fitness, and discipline. Participants also receive training in first aid, firefighting, and self-defence.
The Maldives National Service is a joint initiative of various government ministries and agencies. While this service will be further expanded in the future, the government has decided to introduce a dedicated law for the National Service very soon. Plans are also under way to expand the initiative, with vocational training set to launch under the programme in January 2026. Participants completing the Initial Training Programme will be given opportunities for technical training based on their interest and availability of courses.