National Service Bill accepted and referred to 241 Committee
The government’s proposed "National Service Bill," aimed at empowering youth and building a generation dedicated to national service, stipulates that the program will be open to individuals between the ages of 16 and 28. According to the bill, the program's policies will be formulated by a special governing council chaired by the President.
From a sitting of the People's Majlis. | RaajjeMV | RaajjeMV
The People's Majlis has accepted the National Service Bill and forwarded it to the Parliamentary Committee on Security Services (241 Committee) for further review.
During Wednesday's parliamentary sitting, the bill was accepted for consideration with a majority of 50 votes.
This bill seeks to introduce a national service program and establish a robust legal framework for its design and implementation.
The bill stipulates that the policies for implementing the national service program will be determined by a Governing Council. This council will comprise the President, the Vice President, the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, the Minister of Finance, the Chief of Defence Force, and the Commissioner of Police. The President of the Republic will also serve as the chair of the council.
The program includes a provision to establish an advisory committee tasked with providing guidance on the formulation of its policies.
The government stated that the bill was introduced to create opportunities for young people seeking to serve in the state's uniformed services and other sectors. Furthermore, the bill aims to empower the youth and foster a capable generation dedicated to serving the nation and the community.
The bill states that its primary objective is to introduce a national service program aimed at equipping individuals with the physical and intellectual capabilities required to serve in various sectors. This will be achieved through the provision of specialized education, training, and practical experience under the national service framework.
The bill also outlines the specific components of the national service program. Eligibility for participation is restricted to individuals between the ages of 16 and 28.
According to the bill, the national service program consists of two primary components. These include a course in basic education and training, followed by service within a designated branch of the state's uniformed services. As the bill currently stands, participation in this program remains voluntary.
