National Scout Camp in New Taipei City focuses on SDGs and local exploration

New Taipei City is hosting the "2026 National Scout Camp for Primary and Secondary Schools" from July 3 to 6 at the Longmen Camp. This year's theme, "Children's Dreams, Sustainable Pioneers," aims to foster a sense of responsibility, action, and global citizenship among students. The camp integrates the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the spirit of scouting education, and the natural and cultural heritage of the Northeast Coast.

Liu Ming-chao, Deputy Director of the New Taipei City Education Bureau, highlighted the city's long-standing commitment to scouting education. He emphasized that scouting goes beyond outdoor activities, serving as a crucial learning process for developing leadership, cooperation, problem-solving skills, and a spirit of service. The camp leverages the rich natural, ecological, and cultural resources of Longmen Camp and the Northeast Coast, offering age-specific programs designed for exploration, practical application, and growth.

Middle school scouts will focus on the SDGs through activities like "SDGs Adventure Team" role-playing, real-life puzzle-solving, and orienteering. They will also engage in outdoor skills training and visit San Diao Jiao for practical exploration, including measurements, historical observations, and environmental studies. This segment aims to guide students in contemplating environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

Elementary school scouts, under the theme "Jungle BOSS," will participate in activities such as puzzle-solving at the Gold Museum, experiencing eco-friendly sky lanterns, and observing the ecosystem at Shifen Waterfall. These mission-oriented, scenario-based learning experiences are designed to cultivate observational skills, cooperation, and environmental protection awareness.

Participants shared positive experiences. Yang Cheng-hsi from Tucheng Junior High School in New Taipei City noted the importance of teamwork and resource integration in timed challenges. Hsu Rui-rui from Kaohsiung City's 11th Scout Troop found the activities surprising and educational, highlighting the value of environmental protection and sustainable development. Wang Yi-an from New Taipei City's Yongping Composite Scout Troop exemplified the scouting spirit by successfully rescuing an injured mountain羌, embodying the principle of "doing one good deed a day."