Fourth Batch of National Service Initial Training Program Commences with 352 Youth

The fourth batch of the National Service Initial Training program officially commenced today at the Maafilaafushi Composite Training Centre with 352 young participants. The cohort includes 288 men and 64 women from 125 islands across all atolls of the Maldives. Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmi inaugurated the program at a morning ceremony, which was also attended by Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness Abdulla Rafiu as the special guest. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu marked the launch with a post on X, stating that the program aims to build a responsible and patriotic youth generation. He urged all participants to work with determination and courage to complete the program successfully. The 14-week training course covers a wide range of subjects including Maldivian nationalism, responsible citizenship, religious education, leadership, language proficiency, physical fitness, moral training, first aid, fire fighting, self-defence, camp activities, and an introduction to military training. Participants reported to Maafilaafushi on October 13. The National Service Initial Training program was initiated under the policy of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to empower young people and instil strong work ethics and skills.