Michael Burns, chair of Enagage Canada, hopes the programme will teach young people new skills while addressing urgent national needs.

Under the proposal, young people aged 18-25 would complete the military training before serving in areas such as emergency preparedness, climate resilience and community service.

Michael Burns, chair of Engage Canada, said the initiative is designed to address two challenges facing the country: helping young people transition into the workforce while strengthening Canada’s ability to respond to national needs.