Third Women's Boot Camp Gives Youths a Glimpse of National Service

Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad delivering his closing remarks at the end of the Women's Boot Camp 2023.

The Women's Boot Camp (WBC) 2023 – Youth Edition was held at Maju Camp from 11 to 12 February 2023. A ground-up initiative by the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD), this camp was organised by Ms Joanna Portilla, co-lead of ACCORD Family and Community Council Working Group 2, and supported by the Singapore Armed Forces Volunteer Corps (SAFVC). The camp aimed to give women a glimpse of what National Servicemen go through, so that they can better relate to their experiences, and demonstrate stronger support and involvement in National Service (NS) and defence.

This year's WBC was targeted at female youths, and it was attended by 31 participants. 1The participants underwent a series of modified activities that are an iconic part of the NS experience. New to this year's boot camp is an introduction to Urban Operations training and a Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicle demonstration. Other activities include an introduction to the Singapore Assault Rifle - 21st Century (SAR21), the Standard Obstacle Course, a 2km route march and a 100m casualty evacuation. The first day of the camp culminated in a Total Defence (TD) focus group discussion and activity where participants engaged in a conversation on how female youths can play a larger role in NS and our nation's defence. The youths then pledged their support for Total Defence and discussed the roles they can undertake during a crisis.

Speaking at the event, Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad highlighted that the maintenance of strong support for NS and TD is necessary for Singapore's survival, and that women can contribute by volunteering for future activities to support NS and TD. Mr Zaqy said, "This Women's Boot Camp comes at a very opportune time as we celebrate Total Defence Day on 15 February. Recent events, whether it is the Russia-Ukraine war, or global supply chain disruptions, have shown us the importance of defence and how relevant it remains for our women to come on board… the activities in the two-day boot camp is a meaningful start for many of our women to have a sense of what National Service and Defence is all about."

Ms Portilla said, "Women play a vital role in supporting NS, and can contribute collectively to TD by enhancing their individual and community's readiness, and will to act during crises. I am heartened by the support and enthusiasm shown by our participants, and I hope that they now have a better understanding of our National Servicemen's experiences. I strongly encourage more females to contribute to NS and TD, and do their part in safeguarding the defence of our country."

This is the third iteration of the WBC. Previous camps were organised in 2018 and 2019.

Camp participants undergoing the Standard Obstacle Course.

Camp participants handling the Singapore Assault Rifle – 21st Century (SAR 21).

Camp participants heating up combat rations in a mess tin.

Camp participants undergoing rehearsal in preparation for the Urban Operations execution.

Camp participants experienced a 2km route march around the camp.

Camp participants brainstorming and reflecting on what they pledge to do for Total Defence 2023.

More Resources

Fact Sheet: Women’s Boot Camp 2023 – Youth Edition