* Civic Duty and Social Responsibility: NSTP aims to instill a sense of civic consciousness and social responsibility among students. It's believed that regardless of gender, all citizens have a role to play in nation-building and community development. The program encourages active participation in addressing societal issues.
* National Development: A well-rounded citizenry is crucial for national progress. NSTP contributes to this by equipping students with skills and values relevant to national development, regardless of their chosen field of study or gender.
* Disaster Preparedness and Response: NSTP often includes components related to disaster preparedness and response. This is a crucial skill set for all citizens, and both men and women can contribute significantly during emergencies.
* Promoting Gender Equality: While traditionally some roles might have been gendered, NSTP aims to break down these barriers. By requiring both genders to participate in various activities, it promotes gender equality and challenges traditional stereotypes. Both men and women learn skills applicable to a wide range of situations.
* Community Engagement: A vital aspect of NSTP involves community engagement. This benefits the community, and it also provides valuable experience for students, regardless of gender. Students develop teamwork skills and understanding of community needs.
* Enhancing Employability Skills: Many NSTP components focus on developing skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, and problem-solving. These are valuable skills sought by employers and benefit both male and female students in their future careers.
In short, the rationale behind requiring both male and female students to take NSTP rests on the belief that all citizens have a responsibility to contribute to their nation's progress and well-being, and that the skills and values developed through the program are beneficial to individuals regardless of their gender.