What Is National Service (NS)?
National Service (NS) is a compulsory program in Singapore where all able-bodied male citizens and permanent residents must serve for a period of 2 years. NS was introduced in 1967 as a response to the threat of external aggression and has since become an integral part of Singapore’s defense strategy.
How Long Is National Service?
The duration of National Service in Singapore varies depending on the individual’s educational level and vocation. Generally, the following applies:
- Pre-university graduates: 2 years of full-time service
- Polytechnic graduates: 2½ years of service (6 months of full-time service followed by 2 years of part-time service)
- University graduates: 2½ years of service (6 months of full-time service followed by 2 years of part-time service)
Who Is Eligible for NS?
All male citizens and permanent residents of Singapore who are between the ages of 18 and 21 are eligible for National Service. The only exceptions are those who are medically unfit or have been exempted for other reasons.
Medical Exemptions
Individuals may be exempted from NS due to medical conditions that make them unfit for service. These conditions are determined by the Central Manpower Base (CMPB) based on a medical examination.
Other Exemptions
Other exemptions from NS include:
- Students pursuing full-time studies overseas
- Individuals who have already completed NS in another country
- Individuals who are the sole breadwinners for their families
Deferments
In certain cases, individuals may be granted deferments from NS to pursue higher education or for other reasons. Deferments are typically for a period of one year and can be renewed if necessary.
What Happens During NS?
During NS, individuals undergo basic military training (BMT) and are assigned to different vocations within the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). BMT typically lasts for 9 weeks and covers subjects such as weapons handling, fieldcraft, and military etiquette.
After completing BMT, individuals are posted to their respective vocations. Common vocations include infantry, artillery, air force, and navy. During their time in service, individuals will receive specialized training in their assigned vocation.
Full-Time NS
Full-time NS typically involves serving for 5 days a week, 8 hours a day. Individuals may be required to work overtime or participate in weekend exercises.
Part-Time NS
Part-time NS typically involves serving for one weekend a month and a few days of annual in-camp training (ICT). Part-timers may also be required to attend additional training sessions as needed.
Benefits of National Service
Despite its compulsory nature, National Service offers a number of benefits to individuals, including:
- Enhanced physical fitness: NS provides individuals with the opportunity to improve their physical fitness through regular exercise and training.
- Leadership and teamwork skills: NS fosters leadership and teamwork skills through various training exercises and deployments.
- Career opportunities: NS can open up career opportunities in the SAF or other related fields.
- Sense of national pride: NS instills a sense of national pride and patriotism in individuals.
- Financial benefits: Individuals serving NS receive a monthly allowance and other financial benefits.
Conclusion
National Service is a compulsory program in Singapore that all eligible male citizens and permanent residents must serve. The duration of NS varies depending on the individual’s educational level and vocation. While NS can be challenging, it offers a number of benefits to individuals, including enhanced physical fitness, leadership and teamwork skills, career opportunities, a sense of national pride, and financial benefits.
