HE al-Attiyah: promises “good rewards and incentives” for recruits who excel.
The newly-introduced national service initiative has been welcomed by Qataris who have expressed their readiness to participate in the programme.
Speaking to local Arabic daily Arrayah, a cross-section of young Qatari men described the compulsory military service as “a practical way for expressing love and loyalty for the country”.
National service makes young people ready to volunteer for the protection of their nation, the men interviewed by Arrayah said. Further, the military training could produce a strong and disciplined character, making young people more inclined to work in the spirit of the group, they pointed out.
Mohamed al-Ali, a young Qatari, said that military service would teach the recruits how to be responsible citizens and deliver commendable public service for the good of the nation. He said it supported the government’s efforts in establishing and maintaining safety, security and stability in the country, which in turn contributed towards the overall welfare of its inhabitants.
“Military service will help the youth develop positive thinking and train them to take better decisions in life based on good and objective study rather than on impulse,” he added.
Mohamed al-Ziyarah, another Qatari, said that such service would qualify young nationals to defend their nation in case of emergencies. “It will also push forward the country’s development efforts as it would form stronger bond among young people.”
Abdulla al-Khalidi was of the view that the move would help combating undesirable practices of some young people and could enable them to reform. Also, he expected that the period of military service would give young people a good opportunity to learn how to better use their free time in a constructive and productive manner.
“I think the enlistment period will equip young Qatari men with various practical experiences and behavioural skills that would be highly useful for their life,” he said.
As many as 2,000 youths have already registered for the first batch of the national service, exceeding expectations.
“Compulsory military service could be considered a pre-qualification for a more serious professional life in different fields, which would maximise the chances of those who want to join the same or similar fields,” said Mubarak al-Ahbabi.
“Besides, almost all young Qataris saw the national service as a honour bestowed on them by the country to prepare them for a more disciplined and efficient life style.”
The conscription programme targets Qataris in the age category of 18-35 years.
HE the Minister of State for Defence Affairs Major General Hamad bin Ali al-Attiyah had revealed that even Qatari men beyond the age requirement had expressed their wish to join the service. He promised to find a way to give them such an opportunity.
Al-Attiyah indicated that registration for young Qatari women would be open next year to give them also an opportunity to serve the nation.
In response, young Qatari women said they were looking forward to the programme.
“Joining the military service will improve the intellectual and physical capabilities of young women,” said Fatima, a young Qatari woman. “It could also encourage them to regularly practice sports and join in team work. Further, for the future life of women as wives and mothers, this period could be highly effective in improving their management skills and ability to be a positive leaders within their families,” added Fatima.