President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that joining the army does not close off other avenues for soldiers.

President Solih made the remarks while addressing the graduates at the Oath Taking Ceremony of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF)'s 68th Basic Training Course at Lh. Maafilaafushi on Thursday.

President Solih added that the soldier's top priority should be to protect the citizens, and that their skills would be utilised for national progress.

He also added that the armed forces have gained an advantage over the past years through science and technology, and advised the graduates to take advantage of the opportunities presented to them . President Solih stated that the army needs more young recruits with a variety of educational backgrounds. As such, President Solih said that soldiers have multiple opportunities within the ranks of the armed services and other avenues to advance their careers.

He stated that the responsibility of the Maldives armed forces is to uphold peace and harmony within the country.

President Solih ceremonially presented firearms to the 195 soldiers graduating from the 68th Basic Training Course. The oath was administered by Judge Uz Sulaiman Mohamed - Chief Magistrate and Lhaviyani Magistrate Court.