More than 300 youth depart for fourth batch of National Service training

More than 300 young people departed today for the training of the fourth batch of the National Service (Vathanee Service) programme. The Defence Ministry said 351 trainees from 126 islands are taking part in the three-month training conducted at the training centre established in Lh. Mafilafushi. They comprise 287 men and 64 women. On completion of the training, participants will receive three certificates: the Civic Education and Leadership certificate, the Community Volunteer Firefighter certificate, the Basic First Aid certificate, and a certificate for completing the Peer Education Training Programme. During the training period, the government will provide an allowance of MVR 6,000 per month. The National Service programme for people aged between 16 and 28 was launched last October, with the aim of building a patriotic, responsible and healthy generation. After the first training, the third batch departed yesterday for B. Kihaadhoo to complete the technical component. The government's target is for an additional 1,000 youth to complete these trainings within this year. The article was written by Aasima Nizar and published on 13 October 2026 at 13:21.