Doha: President of the National Service Academy Brigadier General Salem Masoud Al Hababi affirmed the State of Qatar's commitment to building an aware and capable generation that contributes to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030, highlighting the significant role of the National Service Academy as a leading national institution that integrates advanced military training with personal development and the reinforcement of national identity through comprehensive programs and strategic partnerships. The Academy aims to ensure that Qatari youth are prepared to confront the challenges of the era and contribute to national development with competence and confidence.
According to Qatar News Agency, Brigadier General Al Hababi, in an exclusive interview with Al-Sharq newspaper, outlined the key features of the Academy's strategic vision, its role in enhancing national security and comprehensive development, and future initiatives that reinforce its position as an incubator for young leaders. He noted that the Academy aspires to become a global center for comprehensive national training by preparing Qatari youth who excel intellectually, physically, and ethically. He emphasized that the Academy's vision is based on integrating authentic Qatari values with the latest military and societal standards, in order to create a generation that is conscious of its identity, ready to take responsibility, and capable of facing the challenges of the present and future, in line with Qatar Vision 2030.
He said that, based on Amiri Decision No. (5) of 2014, the Academy works to equip youth with the skills and values necessary to defend the country and safeguard its territory, while also fostering loyalty and a sense of belonging to the wise leadership. This, he said, makes them a solid shield for national security. He pointed out that the Academy is striving to keep pace with modern developments by updating its training content and adopting advanced technologies such as virtual reality and military simulation, in addition to expanding partnerships with universities and specialized institutions to meet the country's needs.
Regarding institutional partnerships, Brigadier General Salem Masoud Al Hababi noted that the Academy has signed 20 cooperation agreements with the Ministry of Sports and Youth, the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, and Qatar University. He expressed keenness to expand partnerships with international entities specializing in military training and education. He also pointed out that the Academy offers facilitation for students who achieve high grades (75% and above) in secondary school, through a conditional deferment system for national service, allowing them to complete their university studies before joining the Academy.
He further noted that the strategic vision for the National Service Academy over the next five to ten years centers on transforming it into a leading global center for comprehensive national training, one that integrates academic, military, and ethical excellence. The Academy also aims to prepare a conscious and capable leadership generation that contributes to realizing the aspirations of Qatar National Vision 2030 through the launch of innovative initiatives, including international scholarship programs to develop key skills, and the creation of specialized programs to nurture young leaders, he said.
He added that, in addition to current efforts, there is an ongoing study to establish pioneering programs aimed at empowering Qatari women. These initiatives are intended to make the Academy an inclusive environment that produces generations capable of leading the future with confidence and competence, strengthened by national identity and a sense of social responsibility.
Regarding the possibility of women joining national service, President of the National Service Academy Brigadier General Salem Masoud Al Hababi confirmed that, as of now, there are no mandatory requirements for females to join national service in Qatar. In accordance with National Service Law No. (5) of 2018, the service remains limited to males aged 18 to 35. He added that female participation reflects the evolution of societal awareness and changing national dynamics in the country, which continues to make steady progress in empowering women and involving them in various sectors. Qatari women have demonstrated competence and commitment in many fields. Therefore, the inclusion of females in the future is not currently an obligation, but rather a strategic option that will be evaluated according to the state's needs.
He also referred to the coordination mechanism between the National Service Academy and institutions in both the public and private sectors to facilitate the enrollment of employees in national service. He explained that this is managed through a carefully structured regulatory framework that ensures a smooth transition into service without affecting employees' professional rights. The Academy issues official correspondence to employers, specifying the dates of conscription and the required duration of leave for service. In accordance with existing laws, these entities are obligated to facilitate the employee's participation without imposing any salary deductions or terminating employment contracts, while guaranteeing the employee's job position and all associated rights throughout the period of service.
At the conclusion of his interview with Al-Sharq, the President of the National Service Academy of the Qatari Armed Forces emphasized that national service in Qatar is a strategic pillar that continuously evolves to keep pace with global transformations, especially amid rapid technological and military developments. National service was not designed to remain a fixed model. It's meant be a dynamic platform that responds to the demands of the era, while maintaining its core mission of building disciplined and committed citizens.