Government Submits Bill to Formalise National Service Programme
Legislation introduced to grant official legal authority to national service programme | Photo: MNDF
The Government has submitted legislation to Parliament seeking to grant formal legal authority to the National Service programme introduced last year by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
The bill was presented on behalf of the administration by South Kulhudhuffushi MP Faruhath Mohamed. It aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework for the programme and sets out its objective of developing a generation of young Maldivians who are physically, technically and intellectually equipped to contribute meaningfully to the nation and society.
advertisement
Under the proposed law, the Government would be required to implement a programme consisting of a basic education and training course followed by a period of service within a state uniformed body. The legislation states that the programme must foster respect for the Islamic faith and its symbols, encourage pride in the country and promote national identity as a core value among participants.
Eligibility would be limited to youths aged between 16 and 21. Individuals under the age of 18 would be required to obtain parental consent in addition to demonstrating their own willingness to participate. All applicants would need to undergo and pass a medical assessment, with the standards to be set out in regulations issued under the law.
The Ministry of Defence would be responsible for providing logistical and financial support during the training period. This would include accommodation, meals, medical care and transportation. Participants would also receive a financial allowance considered reasonable under the legislation.
Upon completion of the basic education and training components, participants would be required to serve in a uniformed body for a period not exceeding one year. The specific terms of service would be determined by a Governing Council established under the bill. The legislation further provides for opportunities to be facilitated for participants to seek employment within the uniformed services following their period of service.
