341 Youth Graduate from Third National Service Batch in Laamu Atoll

A total of 341 students have officially graduated from the third batch of the National Service programme following the completion of a rigorous 15-week basic training course. The graduation ceremony, featuring a traditional oath-taking and a guard of honour parade, took place at the MNDF Composite Training Center in Maafilaafushi, Laamu Atoll, with Minister of Defence and National Service Hassan Rasheed in attendance. The cohort, which began its training on May 17, originally consisted of 352 cadets representing 112 islands across the Maldives. The graduating class comprises 279 male and 62 female students who successfully met the program's demanding requirements. Beyond military-style discipline, the graduates earned a diverse array of credentials. These include certificates in Civil Education and Leadership, Community Volunteer Firefighting, Basic First Aid, and the Peer Education Training Program. To further their development, selected graduates will now transition to advanced technical training at the Technical and Vocational Center in Kihaadhoo, Baa Atoll. The National Service programme is a flagship initiative launched by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. It aims to revitalize the national spirit and instill Islamic ethics among the youth, fostering a deep sense of patriotism and a lifelong commitment to public service. This latest graduation follows two previous cohorts, each comprising 344 students. The intensive curriculum blends academic and practical instruction. Students studied Maldivian nationalism, responsible citizenship, religious education, and leadership. These theoretical lessons were paired with physical training, drill activities, and essential life-saving skills, including self-defense, camping, and an introduction to military exercises. With the third batch now complete, the government has already finalized the selection process for the fourth batch of the National Service programme, ensuring a continuous pipeline of disciplined and civic-minded youth ready to serve the nation.