Over 90 young men and women have been enrolled in the AFM after a call for applications issued in August.

They took their oath of allegiance to the people and the nation and are starting 14 intensive weeks of basic training which will see their transition from civilians to soldiers.

More than 200 submitted applications but fewer than half met requirements. All applicants underwent a physical fitness assessment, a motivational interview and a medical examination.

They will now follow lectures in military law and procedure, weapons handling, marksmanship, ceremonial drill, first aid, radio communication and map reading as well as physical training.