‘Eua Noble Representative proposed in Parliament that His Majesty’s Arm Forces lower the entry qualification for new recruits.
Lord Nuku says he noticed from the qualification requirement they only need form six and seven qualification are recruited to the service.
He said there are over 2000 high school graduates every year and the recruitment process strictly applies to only form six and seven graduates.
Therefore he urged TDS to consider allowing students who are not academically qualified to enter the His Majesty’s arm forces.
“They can be recruited to serve as cooks and other lower ranks,” explained Lord Nuku
‘Eua Noble Representative’s remark came when the Whole House Committee discussed and passed the Tonga Defense Services Vote which saw a two percent increase in budget allocation.
Meanwhile the Speaker of Parliament, Lord Tuívakano suggested there should be an increase to TDS’s budget not only for their contribution to international peace keeping but soldiers are performing extraordinary jobs in Tonga.