Latest news with #nationalservice
Malay Mail
01-07-2025
- Health
- Malay Mail
Singapore NSman, 30, dies after collapsing outside Maju Camp post-fitness training; SAF halts NS FIT sessions
SINGAPORE, July 1 — A 30-year-old operationally ready national serviceman (NSman) died in hospital after collapsing outside Maju Camp on the evening of June 30, the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) said today. The NSman had completed a National Service Fitness Improvement Training (NS FIT) session at the Maju Fitness Conditioning Centre between 6.50pm and 8pm and was cleared to leave after reporting he felt well, according to a report in The Straits Times. He booked out of Maju Camp at 8.11pm but collapsed shortly after, just outside the camp premises. A passer-by witnessed the incident and called for an ambulance, which was dispatched at 8.16pm and arrived on site at 8.25pm. Resuscitation efforts began on-site and continued as he was transported to the National University Hospital. He arrived at the hospital around 9pm, but despite emergency treatment, he was pronounced dead at 9.54pm. In response, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has implemented a safety pause on NS FIT training until July 4 to review protocols and reinforce safety measures. NS FIT is a 10-session programme introduced in 2021 to replace remedial and preparatory training for the individual physical proficiency test, encouraging NSmen to maintain regular fitness. 'The SAF is rendering support to the family in their time of grief. We extend our deepest condolences to the family,' Mindef said. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of death.
Khaleej Times
14-06-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Father's martyrdom, sense of purpose: Why UAE's female soldiers joined national service
UAE recruit Maryam Abdulla Saleh Albadri, 18, had never seriously considered joining the national service. 'Honestly, I never thought about it,' the Abu Dhabi-based Emirati told Khaleej Times. However, everything changed after her beloved father, who served in the UAE Armed Forces, was tragically martyred in 2022. 'After my father passed away, I felt my true place was in the army, where he served with honour and gave his life for our country.' Maryam is among hundreds of Emirati women who serve in the armed forces. The UAE national service, which is mandatory for all medically fit men, is optional for women. Maryam has now completed eight months of service as part of an approximately 11-month programme. She had originally hoped to pursue academic studies abroad, but her father's martyrdom reshaped her life's goals. Once spoiled and rebellious, she experienced a significant transformation, becoming more independent, responsible, and self-sufficient. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Challenges such as homesickness and emotional stress tested her resilience, but she credits the strong support from her fellow recruits for helping her persevere. Today, Maryam is more disciplined and physically active, integrating a dedicated fitness routine into her busy daily schedule. She aims to further her military career by applying to the prestigious officer candidate school. Initially, her family was concerned about her path, but their feelings have shifted to deep pride, with her sister becoming her strongest and most steadfast supporter. 'National service isn't just about physical endurance. It builds character and brings out the best in you, especially for Emirati women,' she added. She is currently completing her service at the distinguished Khawla Bint Al Azwar Military School in Al Ain, which includes fully equipped residential facilities and specialized training campuses. From shyness to strength For Kamla Mohammed Hassan Alblooshi, seeing Emirati women proudly in military uniform on TikTok sparked passion to serve the country. Despite her quiet upbringing, focused on home and university life, she made the courageous decision to join national service. The 20-year-old woman living in Ajman initially missed her mother during her early days. However, she soon grew into a more independent and confident young woman. Her mother recognized this positive change and began to rely on her more. 'I became calmer with my family and more aware of myself,' she said. Kamla, currently studying electrical engineering, paused her university studies to fully commit to national service and plans to resume them after completing her service. She is also considering a continued career in the military if the opportunity arises. In the beginning, she faced difficulties with the intense heat, feelings of homesickness, and adapting to a strict routine. However, with the support of her fellow recruits and trainers, she managed to overcome these challenges. 'National service provided me with invaluable leadership skills and greatly boosted my self-esteem.' Media dreams to military When serving the country is a priority, it takes precedence over personal dreams. This was the case for Fatma Ahmed Alebri, a 24-year-old from Al Ain, who once envisioned a thriving career in media. However, with encouragement from her mother, she decided to join the national service and discovered a renewed sense of purpose. During her service, she emerged with greater discipline, confidence, and leadership skills. She rose to become the respected team leader of her squad and now proudly represents Emirati women in uniform. She did not give up on her dream, as she plans to return to her studies in media after completing her service and encourages other young women to take the leap without fear. One of Fatma's most cherished moments was participating in the 'Waaqfat Walaa' (Loyalty Stand) on December 2, coinciding with the UAE's 53rd National Day and the 10th anniversary of the National and Reserve Service Law. 'We trained intensively to be ready. I'm truly grateful to the dedicated trainers, instructors, and officers who supported us. When we finally stood there and saw Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in person, tears of pride rolled down my cheeks. It was a profound feeling of pride and achievement I will never forget.' Fatma later followed the public reaction on social media and was moved by the widespread appreciation. 'I saw people talking about the Loyalty Stand on social media. It made me feel that my participation was one of the most meaningful things I've ever done.' The Loyalty Stand featured the largest-ever military assembly in the UAE's history, with thousands of national service and reserve recruits in a powerful display of unity. It marked a significant moment in the country's Union Day celebrations. 'I'm proud of who I've become' When an individual knows they are supported by their family, it contributes to strengthening their self-confidence and abilities. With her father's continuous encouragement, Dana Helal Alshamsi, 19, from Sharjah, initially planned to enroll in university after high school. However, she eventually decided to follow her father's lead. 'I wanted to continue studying, but my dad wanted me to join the army,' she said. The adjustment was tough. New routines, strict discipline, and early mornings changed her lifestyle completely. 'Everything changed: my sleep, food, and lifestyle,' she said. But strong support from her trainers helped her push through. Now eight months into the programme, Dana is more self-assured, organized, and capable. She has developed strong leadership skills and greatly improved her communication. 'One of the hardest moments was when I thought of quitting,' she admitted. 'But my father believed in me and wouldn't let me give up.' Today, Dana is more self-assured. She has developed leadership skills and improved her communication abilities. The programme, explained The comprehensive programme spans 11 months and is divided into three progressive phases: foundational, specialized, and operational. Recruits receive extensive training in marching, weaponry, marksmanship, and engineering, alongside rigorous academic lectures. Their development is continuously evaluated through demanding tests. According to the official national service website, the conditions for enlistment include: 1. Emirati citizenship (passport and family book) 2. Age between 18 and 30 for men, and up to 35 for women 3. Medical fitness 4. Approval from the National and Reserve Service Committee 5. Guardian's approval for female recruits
Khaleej Times
12-06-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
'Found my calling after father's martyrdom': UAE's female soldiers share national service stories
UAE recruit Maryam Abdulla Saleh Albadri, 18, had never seriously considered joining the national service. 'Honestly, I never thought about it,' the Abu Dhabi-based Emirati told Khaleej Times. However, everything changed after her beloved father, who served in the UAE Armed Forces, was tragically martyred in 2022. 'After my father passed away, I felt my true place was in the army, where he served with honour and gave his life for our country.' Maryam is among hundreds of Emirati women who serve in the armed forces. The UAE national service, which is mandatory for all medically fit men, is optional for women. Maryam has now completed eight months of service as part of an approximately 11-month programme. She had originally hoped to pursue academic studies abroad, but her father's martyrdom reshaped her life's goals. Once spoiled and rebellious, she experienced a significant transformation, becoming more independent, responsible, and self-sufficient. Challenges such as homesickness and emotional stress tested her resilience, but she credits the strong support from her fellow recruits for helping her persevere. Today, Maryam is more disciplined and physically active, integrating a dedicated fitness routine into her busy daily schedule. She aims to further her military career by applying to the prestigious officer candidate school. Initially, her family was concerned about her path, but their feelings have shifted to deep pride, with her sister becoming her strongest and most steadfast supporter. 'National service isn't just about physical endurance. It builds character and brings out the best in you, especially for Emirati women,' she added. She is currently completing her service at the distinguished Khawla Bint Al Azwar Military School in Al Ain, which includes fully equipped residential facilities and specialized training campuses. From shyness to strength For Kamla Mohammed Hassan Alblooshi, seeing Emirati women proudly in military uniform on TikTok sparked passion to serve the country. Despite her quiet upbringing, focused on home and university life, she made the courageous decision to join national service. The 20-year-old woman living in Ajman initially missed her mother during her early days. However, she soon grew into a more independent and confident young woman. Her mother recognized this positive change and began to rely on her more. 'I became calmer with my family and more aware of myself,' she said. Kamla, currently studying electrical engineering, paused her university studies to fully commit to national service and plans to resume them after completing her service. She is also considering a continued career in the military if the opportunity arises. In the beginning, she faced difficulties with the intense heat, feelings of homesickness, and adapting to a strict routine. However, with the support of her fellow recruits and trainers, she managed to overcome these challenges. 'National service provided me with invaluable leadership skills and greatly boosted my self-esteem.' Media dreams to military When serving the country is a priority, it takes precedence over personal dreams. This was the case for Fatma Ahmed Alebri, a 24-year-old from Al Ain, who once envisioned a thriving career in media. However, with encouragement from her mother, she decided to join the national service and discovered a renewed sense of purpose. During her service, she emerged with greater discipline, confidence, and leadership skills. She rose to become the respected team leader of her squad and now proudly represents Emirati women in uniform. She did not give up on her dream, as she plans to return to her studies in media after completing her service and encourages other young women to take the leap without fear. One of Fatma's most cherished moments was participating in the 'Waaqfat Walaa' (Loyalty Stand) on December 2, coinciding with the UAE's 53rd National Day and the 10th anniversary of the National and Reserve Service Law. 'We trained intensively to be ready. I'm truly grateful to the dedicated trainers, instructors, and officers who supported us. When we finally stood there and saw Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in person, tears of pride rolled down my cheeks. It was a profound feeling of pride and achievement I will never forget.' Fatma later followed the public reaction on social media and was moved by the widespread appreciation. 'I saw people talking about the Loyalty Stand on social media. It made me feel that my participation was one of the most meaningful things I've ever done.' The Loyalty Stand featured the largest-ever military assembly in the UAE's history, with thousands of national service and reserve recruits in a powerful display of unity. It marked a significant moment in the country's Union Day celebrations. 'I'm proud of who I've become' When an individual knows they are supported by their family, it contributes to strengthening their self-confidence and abilities. With her father's continuous encouragement, Dana Helal Alshamsi, 19, from Sharjah, initially planned to enroll in university after high school. However, she eventually decided to follow her father's lead. 'I wanted to continue studying, but my dad wanted me to join the army,' she said. The adjustment was tough. New routines, strict discipline, and early mornings changed her lifestyle completely. 'Everything changed: my sleep, food, and lifestyle,' she said. But strong support from her trainers helped her push through. Now eight months into the programme, Dana is more self-assured, organized, and capable. She has developed strong leadership skills and greatly improved her communication. 'One of the hardest moments was when I thought of quitting,' she admitted. 'But my father believed in me and wouldn't let me give up.' Today, Dana is more self-assured. She has developed leadership skills and improved her communication abilities. The programme, explained The comprehensive programme spans 11 months and is divided into three progressive phases: foundational, specialized, and operational. Recruits receive extensive training in marching, weaponry, marksmanship, and engineering, alongside rigorous academic lectures. Their development is continuously evaluated through demanding tests. According to the official national service website, the conditions for enlistment include: 1. Emirati citizenship (passport and family book) 2. Age between 18 and 30 for men, and up to 35 for women 3. Medical fitness 4. Approval from the National and Reserve Service Committee 5. Guardian's approval for female recruits
Reuters
05-06-2025
- Business
- Reuters
Trump administration must restore AmeriCorps programs in 24 states, judge rules
June 5 (Reuters) - A federal judge ordered the Trump administration on Thursday to restore AmeriCorps programs in 24 Democratic-led states but declined to prevent it from cutting the bulk of the workforce of the federal agency for national service and volunteering. U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman in Baltimore issued an injunction at the behest of those states and the District of Columbia who argued Republican President Donald Trump's administration is unlawfully dismantling AmeriCorps.
The Independent
03-06-2025
- Business
- The Independent
How Gen Z could be nudged into conscription – from military gap years to reduced University and home loans
At the beginning of March, Poland outpaced other European nations by announcing plans to introduce universal military service for all men. Speaking in the Polish parliament, president Donald Tusk said: 'We will try to have a model ready by the end of this year so that every adult male in Poland is trained in the event of war, ensuring that this reserve is comparable and adequate to potential threats.' Even though Poland has taken a step that many other European nations are hesitant to take, it is evident that, despite their reluctance, forms of military service are being examined, studied, and debated among European policymakers. And all the signs suggest that the UK will follow suit sooner rather than later. Nearly a year ago, Rishi Sunak pledged that if the Conservatives won the general election, 18-year-olds would be required to take part in a scheme involving military or civilian service. While Sunak was short on details regarding who would conduct the training or how it would be funded, the proposals were pitched as a 'bold new model of national service'. Participants could opt to spend one weekend per month volunteering in civic roles such as an RNLI volunteer or NHS responder. The country, he argued, needed to be 'open and honest' about long-term challenges, and the scheme would provide young people with 'real-world skills while contributing to their country and community'. The plan was quickly derided across the political spectrum, with Justin Crump, a defence expert and veteran of 25 years, capturing the mood when he said the plans were 'ill-thought-through' and would be an 'enormous potential burden' on Britain's military. He added: 'It's certainly not the solution to the military's problems, and I think everyone I've spoken to this morning still has their head in their hands.' However, 12 months on, it no longer seems like such an outlandish idea. Sir Alex Younger told Independent TV recently that people in the UK must realise that the threat from Russia – and its closeness to the US – is real, adding: ' Putin and Trump together have done their best to persuade us that the rules have changed.' Discussing what needs to be done to prepare, Sir Alex, known as 'C' during his time as spy chief, added: 'You'd have to ask a soldier about the actual efficacy of things like conscription. I have no idea… I know that it just needs to be a more integrated feature of everyday life. 'I think that will bring broader benefits. So I think this is probably more about a more creative and broader conception of what the reserves is.' The ex-spy chief then told the BBC 's Today Podcast that a new type of enrolment should be looked at. He said: "In extremis, I think we'd be looking at something like the model I understand exists in places like Sweden, where the Government theoretically has the power to compel people to give their service one way or another, but doesn't exercise it except in areas where it's really needed." As the US becomes a less reliable ally in an increasingly volatile world, the government has said it will implement all 62 recommendations of the Strategic Defence Review, and has promised to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2027, with an 'ambition' – but no firm commitment – to hike it to 3 per cent in the next parliament. Meanwhile, defence secretary John Healey has warned that Britain would not be ready to fend off an invasion given the state of its armed forces, and agrees that a recruitment drive is needed to bolster Britain's depleted military. The review includes improving recruitment to tackle the hiring crisis, with innovative new ways and points to Australia's military gap year as an 'exciting model'. The Australian Defence Force offers a 12-month gap year programme which allows youngsters to experience military life without a long-term commitment, training them in a number of roles while giving them benefits like salary, accommodation and healthcare. The SDR also suggests that Cadet Forces should be expanded across the country by 30 per cent by 2030. With almost a million young people not in education, employment, or training, this group has also become a key focus as ministers cut benefits while seeking to strengthen defence. As Rachel Reeves announced substantial cuts to the welfare bill earlier this year, former Tesco chair John Allan suggested that out-of-work young people should be required to undergo military training in exchange for benefits. Under the government's new welfare reforms, those aged 18 to 21 will be given a 'youth guarantee' offer of training or employment but risk losing their benefits if they decline. The chancellor told ITV: 'In the changed world we face today, there are opportunities for good jobs in our armed forces, but also in the defence sector that produces the tanks, machinery, and ships that our military uses. And of course, as this government increases defence spending, more good jobs with decent wages will become available in that sector.' So, could a voluntary national service or conscription 'with benefits' soon become a reality? Conscription ran in the UK from 1916-1920 and again from 1939-1960. It was renamed 'national service' after the Second World War. The last national serviceman left the military in 1963, more than 60 years ago. The traditional argument for ending national service was that it consumed too many regular personnel to train conscripts, many of whom were reluctant and of lower quality. A motivated professional force was deemed preferable. However, a combination of factors has brought the issue back into sharp focus. First, the Ukraine war has demonstrated that small, professional armies, which are costly and limited in numbers, can be quickly depleted. While precise forecasts are difficult, some suggest that the British army 's war-fighting arm, 3rd (UK) Division, could become combat-ineffective within six months in a Ukraine-style conflict due to casualties and exhaustion. Another challenge is filling recruitment gaps in modern armed forces, a common issue across Europe as populations age. The British army currently has about 71,300 personnel, the lowest number since the Napoleonic era. Of these, only 55,005 are fully deployable (able to serve without medical restrictions). The army's target is 73,000, yet the Royal Navy alone has missed its recruitment targets for sailors and commandos every year for over a decade. For the UK, there are concerns about protecting the home front in the event of war. The current forces can either deploy to Europe alongside Nato allies or stay to defend the UK, but they lack the depth to do both. The Office for National Statistics states that around 750,000 people turn 18 in the UK each year. The armed forces neither need nor can absorb anywhere near that number of recruits. This brings us to the question of what a new national service model could look like. In the Nordic and Baltic states, there is universal conscription with a twist: not everyone is called up. The armed forces select recruits based on their needs, and people are encouraged to volunteer through a number of incentives. In these countries, national service is highly valued. In Norway, being accepted for national service is sometimes called 'the Golden Ticket' because it significantly improves life prospects. Government jobs are prioritised for those who serve, and many private companies offer fast-track recruitment for national service volunteers. Around 15 per cent of 18-year-olds in Norway (both men and women) are conscripted or volunteer, totalling about 9,000 annually, with numbers expected to rise due to the perceived Russian threat. In Finland, the army can expand from a peacetime strength of 20,000 (including conscripts) to 300,000 within a week in a crisis. Many countries with military national service also offer civilian alternatives. Sweden and Finland, for example, as Sir Alex Younger pointed to, both provide civil defence options. Those refusing both military and civil service can face imprisonment without parole. Finns living abroad who fail to return for service can have their passports revoked. However, in countries bordering Russia, national service is seen as part of the national culture and duty. By contrast, a study by The Times and YouGov revealed that only 11 per cent of the UK's Gen Z would be willing to fight for their country in a war. Could they be persuaded if national service provided tangible benefits? In the past, British national service helped improve literacy and numeracy by sending illiterate recruits to the Royal Army Education Corps. A modern version could integrate education, offering student loan forgiveness or education vouchers for those who serve. Extending service commitments of, say, up to five years could result in complete student debt cancellation or preferential financial backing for property purchases. As in Norway, those who serve could receive priority for civil service jobs, making national service an attractive opportunity. Ultimately, national service need not replicate the model of the 1950s and 60s. The military once numbered over 350,000 personnel, but today, only a fraction of the 750,000 18-year-olds each year would be needed – perhaps 10-15,000 for military service and a few thousand more for civilian roles. Bringing back national service would require a major cultural and mind shift in the UK. However, proven models from European countries are being closely examined. Unless Russia collapses, a version of national service seems increasingly likely within the next five years and military 'gap years' are just one innovative ideas being considered. To make it work, though, the UK must shed outdated negative perceptions of national service and recognise its broader societal benefits. In an age where young people are increasingly isolated by algorithms and social media, engaging them in shared experiences that promote national values could be a profoundly positive step – if done well.
