SWAT: The Swat Scouts Open Group (SSOG), a pioneering organization focused on youth character development and social work, celebrated its 38th anniversary with a special ceremony in Mingora. The event honored Scout leaders who have played a significant role in the group’s success, making SSOG the only volunteer organization in Pakistan to reach this milestone.
Prominent social figures and Scout leaders, including Rafi ul Mulk, Haji Muhammad Ali, Fazal Ali, Salim Ahsan, and other key members, attended the ceremony. The founding members of SSOG were recognized for their dedication and contributions throughout the years.
For the first time, awards were given to scouts who excelled in 2024, with special honors like the Lifetime Achievement Award and Pride of Performance, recognizing those who have served the group continuously for 38 years. SSOG, a leading Scout organization in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and across Pakistan, has earned more than 40 gold medals from the President of Pakistan over its distinguished history.
Speakers at the event highlighted the lack of government support for SSOG, despite its impressive achievements, including winning the most Presidential Gold Medals in Pakistan’s history. The group’s notable contributions to disaster relief, environmental conservation, hospital services, and social work were praised, along with its role in building self-confidence and responsibility among the youth.
It was also noted that the leadership of SSOG has been successfully passed to a younger generation over the past three years, who have continued to uphold the group’s values. This year, under their leadership, SSOG organized the first National Pakistan Scouts Open Group Integral Conference in Swat, attracting scouts from across the country.
The event concluded with performances by scouts, including Hamd, Naat, national songs, sketches, and Pashto songs, which were warmly received by the audience.
