The camp took place from June 30 to July 4, 2025, at the organisation’s programme site in Tema. It brought together 84 participants from SOS locations in Tema, Asiakwa, Kumasi, and Tamale, as well as young people from surrounding communities.

Held under the theme “Helping young people develop the relevant skills for their career path,” the camp introduced participants to a wide range of topics intended to help them build confidence and prepare for both academic and vocational options.

Participants engaged in sessions on self-awareness, decision-making, time management, financial planning, leadership, entrepreneurship, and environmental responsibility. Other sessions included discussions on sexual and reproductive health, drug abuse, gender stereotypes, and how to identify and report abuse.

Speaking during the opening session, Mr Godknows Kporha, Youth Development Advisor at SOS Children’s Villages Ghana, said the programme was intended to support young people in making informed decisions about their lives.

“This boot camp is not just about career orientation,” Mr Kporha said. “It’s about helping young people see themselves as agents of change in their communities through personal growth, resilience, and purposeful choices.”

The National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Ghana, Mr Alexander Mar Kekula, advised the participants to be purposeful in their actions and remain focused on their goals.

“Be intentional about your choices. Seek guidance, ask questions, and remain focused,” Mr Kekula told the group. He urged them to take charge of their future by making deliberate and thoughtful decisions.

During the entrepreneurship session, participants worked in teams to develop business ideas, which they presented to their peers and facilitators.

The activity was meant to encourage practical thinking and peer learning.

In another group session on gender equality, the young people were encouraged to question traditional roles and discuss ways to promote fairness within their communities.

One of the sessions on child safeguarding provided practical information on how to protect oneself and others from abuse. Participants were taken through how to recognise harmful behaviour, seek help, and understand personal boundaries and consent.

The boot camp ended with an educational tour of the Tema Harbour. Many of the participants were visiting the port for the first time and had the opportunity to observe port operations and learn about career prospects in logistics, shipping, and international trade.

SOS Children’s Villages Ghana said the programme is part of its broader effort to support young people with guidance and tools that can help them make sound choices for their lives and their communities.

The organisation added that it will continue to roll out similar initiatives across its locations to promote the growth and development of Ghanaian youth.