More than 400 young people who have completed training under the government’s National Service Programme have secured employment opportunities, the Ministry of Defence and National Service has said.
The National Service Programme was inaugurated by President Dr Mohammed Muizzu on October last year.
Speaking on PSM’s “Hendhunu Hendhunaa” programme, Deputy Minister of Defence and National Service Fathimath Mizna Ali stated that aim of the programme is to build a generation that loves the nation and religion, has confidence in themselves and respects others. She added the programme strengthens the youth physically and mentally and teaches them valuable life skills and Islamic Values.
Deputy Minister Mizna stated that this is the first programme in the Maldives that trains the youth in a wide range of areas. She stated the programme was created with the priority of fostering civic responsibility and love for Islam.
The Deputy Minister stated that out of 543 participants that have applied for jobs, 400 participants have received employment opportunities. She noted that work is underway to find jobs for other participants . She stated that participants are given career guidance counselling and priority is given to give participants jobs in the fields that they are interested in.
The Deputy Minister stated that the participants are well versed in Islamic knowledge, mentally strong, take initiative and manage things on their own. She further noted that cadets are taught technical skills that are needed in the work environment.
The Government is working to further broaden the scope of the National Service Programme.
The defence ministry stated that an internship programme is underway for cadets that have graduated from the service program but did not turn 18 yet. The ministry added that along with developing the national defence infrastructure facilities in Girifushi, Kaafu Atoll, plans have been made to establish a National Service Centre there.