The Ministry of National Defense (MoD) outlined this directive in a document responding to a petition from voters in Thanh Hoa province. The petition concerned the employment of individuals trained under the Project for Training Communal Military Cadres, specifically those with college and university degrees in foundational military studies.

Voters from Yen Thang commune highlighted that many cadres were sent for training by local authorities, following government and MoD policies. However, after the implementation of the two-tier local government model and the assignment of regular officers to roles within communal military commands, the utilization of these specially trained personnel has not been addressed.

To ensure adequate personnel for communal-level duties, the MoD stated it has directed relevant agencies and units to review requirements. They proposed that competent authorities call up reserve officers for active duty and recruit university graduates in foundational military studies into communal-level military commands.

Additionally, the MoD mandates the recruitment of professional soldiers to fill specialized and technical staff shortages in understaffed units. This group includes civil servants currently working in communal military commands who do not meet the criteria for officer recruitment, as well as those who aspire to become professional soldiers but have not yet been recruited.

Soldiers assist in flood and storm recovery in Da Nang city in 2025. Photo: Nguyen Dong

Individuals who previously served as Chief or Deputy Chief of communal military commands, and were relieved of their duties and reassigned after the implementation of the two-tier local government model but have not yet been recruited as civil servants or public employees, are also being considered for recruitment.

Furthermore, those who have graduated from or are currently enrolled in regular foundational military programs at military schools will be considered for recruitment, provided they meet all specified standards and conditions.

The Ministry of National Defense has tasked its functional agencies with continuing to guide units in reviewing and compiling recruitment needs for the aforementioned groups. Based on proposals from these units, the MoD will review and decide on the recruitment of eligible candidates in the coming period.

Son Ha