Since 1997 Bugala, in conjunction with other study centers and development organizations, has held work camps in different parts of Uganda. Each work camp brings together volunteer students of different backgrounds and nationalities as they attempt to improve the educational and social welfare of people in some of the poorest areas . Since they begun, the work camps have attracted students and young professionals from Ireland, Germany, Sweden, England, Spain, France, Kenya and Uganda, the host. The volunteers work in collaboration with the people in the rural communities and this gives them an opportunity to learn new skills and in some cases discover hidden talents. The projects implemented are small-scale, designed to benefit small communities such as villages. Most projects in the past have focused on education and involve construction and repair of school buildings. Our belief is that good education is the key to any development.

Bugala undertakes the local preparations before the camp starts, which isusually at the beginning of July. It lasts for 3 to 4 weeks, a period of intense work, learning, cultural exchange and service. The student volunteers on their part look for the project sponsors. This sponsorship covers all expenses related to the project including the travel costs for people from abroad. The local people assist with manual labor, catering for the participants and at times provide some of the construction materials. The weekends are reserved for excursions and cultural visits / get-togethers, as a way of enabling the participants to rest.