Attorney General Expects National Service Bill to Pass in New Parliamentary Term

Attorney General Ahmed Usham has expressed confidence that the National Service Bill will be passed during the new term of the Majlis (Maldivian Parliament), ensuring the long-term sustainability of the national program. Speaking at the Ahaa Forum, the Attorney General confirmed that the legislation is currently under review at the committee stage. Once enacted, the bill will provide a legal framework to formalize the program and establish clear pathways for participants to access employment opportunities upon completion of their service. Complementing these legislative efforts, the Minister of Defence and National Service, Hassan Rasheed, highlighted the tangible impact of the program. Minister Rasheed revealed that the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has already employed more than 300 individuals who transitioned from the National Service program into active duty. The Government is now expanding these efforts by coordinating with other state institutions to secure diverse job placements. According to Minister Rasheed, the administration is prioritizing the alignment of placements with the participants' preferred career fields, although they remain flexible to ensure as many graduates as possible find meaningful work. "Not every participant who completes the service wants employment. However, we will find opportunities for those who do," Minister Rasheed stated, emphasizing a tailored approach to youth development. The National Service program is central to the government's strategy to increase the role of young citizens in national security and civic responsibility. By fostering a sense of duty and providing structured training, the government aims to cultivate a generation capable of safeguarding the nation while receiving a disciplined upbringing. The scale of the initiative is reflected in its recent growth, with 1,028 participants receiving training within a single year. Minister Rasheed noted that these results underscore the program's success in instilling a sense of responsibility among the Maldives' youth.