President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Maldives National Service Programme will be implemented every year from 2025 to increase the personnel at the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and the Maldives Police Service (MPS). He made the remarks while addressing the nation at the official ceremony to commemorate the Victory Day of the Maldives.
The President noted that while celebrating occasions such as Victory Day, it is important to recognise the ongoing work needed to ensure that the country we pass on to future generations remains secure and independent. He emphasised the importance of continuing the national service programme to achieve this goal.
The President further said that Maldivians above the age of 16 who are unable to continue their academic life due to various reasons after completing their secondary education and are not eligible for employment can be recruited to the Maldives National Service Programme and recruited to the MNDF or Police Service.
The President stated that recent statistics indicate 500 to 1,000 children complete O-level qualifications but remain unemployed. However, the National Service Programme of the Maldives will help address this issue.
The President stated that the lack of access to education and job opportunities has contributed to an increase in drug addiction. This trend has placed a greater burden on the government, society, and families. He also emphasised that this situation hurts the economy. To address these challenges, he announced the recruitment of 5,000 young people for the armed forces and police services over the next four years as part of the Maldives National Service Programme. This recruitment will include approximately 4,000 personnel for military services and around 1,000 officers for the police service.
The President announced that the National Service Programme of the Maldives will be supported by legislation. He also shared details about the financial provisions for implementing the national program, stating that MVR 400 million would be allocated for New Policy Initiatives (NPI) in the budget for 2025. Additionally, he mentioned that every year, an extra MVR 400 million could be added to the program.
The President emphasised that a nation requires individuals willing to sacrifice their lives to defend the country against enemies both within and external.
