Participation in National Service trains one to have a stronger character and grooms oneself in physical fitness and social skills. The harsh environment and situations build up one’s determination and perseverance in battling against all odds. Moreover, one learns the value of the things that he has and learns to appreciate them. For instance, when camping in the wilderness, wood has to be gathered to build a ire, tents have to be built with poles, canvas, ropes and such. It is a far cry from the comfort of home, where the bed is laid ready with pillows, blankets, and the room is equipped with an air-conditioner. You will then realise how lucky you are when you have a cosy house. In addition, countless opportunities to train your lifeskills are in plenty. Thus, you learn to adapt to the surroundings, tolerate and cooperate with others and in coping with the harsh environment, improve your fitness.
Furthermore, compulsory National Service will make fine citizens out of us who will be ready to defend our country when the need arises. Through National Service, one learns the importance of the safety of the country. National Service thus brings out a sense of ownership and responsibility in us, that we alone must defend Singapore.
No doubt some people will argue that women have already taken on the role of child-bearers and domestic “caretakers”. Since childbearing has been biologically bestowed upon them, they have contributed to the country’s population. They have to juggle careers and child rearing and are already up to their ears in maintaining these two.
Others point out that with the current defence needs, advanced military equipment and small population, it is not necessary for women to serve National Service. Declining birth rate has been smartly taken care of by using advanced equipment which requires fewer soldiers to operate.
Some even state that women are the weaker sex and should not be subjected to such hardships, which are traditionally “a man’s work”.
In conclusion, women should serve National Service. This will then lead to rapid progress in the military defence and the country’s economy when the citizens strive hard with determination to achieve their goals.
(467 words)
