A groundbreaking scholarship program, the Youth Thrive Project to support the education and personal development of vulnerable young people in Ghana will be launched on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
The initiative, spearheaded by SOS Children’s Villages Canada, the Steele Family Foundation, SOS Children’s Villages Ghana, and the Head of State Award Scheme, was unveiled at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra.
The program aims to benefit 150 youth aged 14-18 years across four years. It focuses on enhancing education, employability, life skills, and community engagement. Participants, referred to as WISE Scholars, will be drawn from SOS Children’s Villages in Asiakwa, Kumasi, Tamale, Tema, and public schools in Dodowa, Shai-Osu Doku Municipality.
Transforming Lives Through Education
The Youth Thrive Project targets key challenges faced by young people, including limited access to education, unemployment, and inadequate life skills. Through the project, participants will receive:
- Scholarship Access: Comprehensive guidance for academic and career success.
- Employability Training: Internships, mentorships, and digital skills to prepare for the workforce.
- Holistic Support: Mental health services, recreation, and experiential learning for personal growth.
- Community Involvement: Empowering youth as active contributors to local development.
By 2028, the program envisions all beneficiaries transitioning into employment, higher education, or entrepreneurship, driving socio-economic transformation in their communities.
WISE Scholarship Program™: A Global Standard
The project is powered by the WISE Scholarship Program™, an innovative initiative by the Steele Family Foundation. The program incorporates the “Earn to Learn” system, evaluating participants’ academic performance, extracurricular activities, and social involvement to determine scholarship levels.
With a focus on long-term impact, the foundation will provide continued mentorship, career counseling, and AI-driven support even after the scholarship ends.
A Partnership for Sustainable Development
The launch of the Youth Thrive Project reflects a shared commitment by the partnering organizations to empower young people and create lasting change. “This initiative not only provides access to education but equips young people with skills and opportunities to thrive,” said a representative from SOS Children’s Villages Ghana.
