In South Carolina, "[a]ny South Carolina resident may petition the court to adopt a child." The minor, it seems, can at least petition the court to adopt a child.

In all adoption cases the child being adopted is appointed a guardian ad litem to protect his interest. The guardian will report to the judge whether he thinks it is in the child’s best interest for the child to be adopted. In all adoptions when the child is not related to the adoptive parent by blood or marriage, a pre- and post-placement home study is also required. The individual performing the home study will voice her opinion about whether the adoption is in the best interest of the child in her report. The report will be submitted to the court and the guardian for review.

Yes a minor may adopt a child if the minor can show the court that the best interest of the child is being met by the adoption. Keep in mind that if the judge, the guardian ad litem, or the individual performing the home study determines the adoption is not in the best interest of the child the adoption will not occur.