NSS aims at developing the following qualities/ competencies among the volunteers:
a) To understand the community in which the NSS volunteers work and to understand themselves in relation to their community;
b) To identify the needs and problems of the community and involve themselves in problem-solving exercise;
c) To develop among themselves a sense of social and civic responsibility;
d) To utilize their knowledge in finding practical solutions to individual and community problems;
e) To gain skills in mobilizing community participation;
f) To acquire leadership qualities and democratic values;
g) To develop capacity to meet emergencies and natural disasters; and
h) To practice national integration and social harmony.