By Evariste Kouassi-Komlan, UNICEF Mongolia Representative
In an era where global education is grappling with unprecedented challenges, the urgency to address the learning crisis has never been more critical. The pandemic has exacerbated existing disparities, with devastating consequences for millions of children worldwide. If we do not act swiftly, by 2030, an estimated 84 million children and young people will remain out of school, and nearly 300 million will lack the basic literacy and numeracy skills required for success in life. This bleak global outlook underscores the need for comprehensive reforms, particularly in nations like Mongolia, where both access and quality of education remain significant hurdles.
Mongolia’s Educational Landscape: Progress and Challenges
Mongolia, with its vast, rugged terrain, faces unique challenges in providing quality education, particularly in remote areas. Despite these obstacles, the country has a long history of prioritizing education. The government has made significant strides in improving access to early childhood care and education (ECCE) and primary education, viewing them as essential pillars for social development and economic growth. The school attendance rate at the primary level stands at an impressive 97%, and recent initiatives have expanded ECCE services to 83% of children aged 3-5. These are commendable achievements that highlight Mongolia’s commitment to its children’s future.
However, the pandemic has exposed and deepened existing vulnerabilities. The digital divide left 180,000 children from herder families unable to access distance learning during school closures, exacerbating educational inequities. Moreover, the quality of learning remains a pressing concern. According to the PISA 2022 results, Mongolian 15-year-olds lag significantly behind the OECD average in reading skills—a reflection of the fundamental gaps in early education. Shockingly, one in three children in Mongolia still lacks basic reading and math skills, highlighting the urgent need for reform.
UNICEF’s Role in Driving Change
Recognizing these challenges, UNICEF has been at the forefront of efforts to bridge educational gaps and enhance learning outcomes for all children in Mongolia. One innovative approach has been the implementation of a play-based and digitally supported learning initiative aimed at improving basic skills such as math and reading. This pilot program, which involved children from grades 3-5 across six provinces and two districts, yielded remarkable improvements: children’s satisfaction with their learning increased from 78% to 89%, and Mongolian language skills improved from 64% to 81%.
UNICEF’s commitment to reaching the hardest-to-reach children has also been evident in its early childhood education initiatives. The “Teacher with Tablet” program is a shining example, providing home-based educational services to children in remote rural areas. By training 3,000 teachers and serving 11,000 children and their families across 13 provinces, this program is not only expanding access to education but also fostering early digital literacy—an essential skill in today’s world.
Embracing Digital Transformation for a Brighter Future
The Government of Mongolia has recognized digitalization as a key lever for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) by 2030. In partnership with UNICEF, Mongolia is making significant strides in its digital transformation journey, with the country being recognized globally as a champion in the “Gateways to Public Digital Learning Initiative” during the 2022 United Nations General Assembly’s “Transforming Education Summit.”
A critical component of this digital push is the GIGA initiative, which aims to connect every school in Mongolia to the internet. This real-time monitoring of school connectivity provides vital data to inform policy decisions and actions, ensuring that no child is left behind in the digital age. Additionally, UNICEF’s efforts to build digital skills among teachers, students, and communities are laying the groundwork for a more digitally inclusive society. Programs like “Girls’ Code,” which empowers young girls with coding skills, are helping to address gender disparities in the tech sector and preparing the next generation of female software engineers.
UNICEF’s support for the development of game-based interactive learning content for pre-primary and primary school levels, as well as audio lessons for marginalized children, is also making a significant impact. These digital resources are providing vital learning opportunities for children who might otherwise be excluded from the education system, particularly those from herder families and socio-economically disadvantaged groups.
The Way Forward
While Mongolia has made notable progress in expanding access to education and integrating digital tools into the learning process, much more remains to be done. The country must continue to prioritize investments in education, particularly in the quality of learning and digital infrastructure. The future of Mongolia’s children—and the nation’s long-term prosperity—depends on our collective ability to ensure that every child has the opportunity to receive a quality education, regardless of their location or background.
One bagh, One school
Due to limited availability of school and kindergarten services in remote areas of Mongolia, many children, particularly from herder families, must stay in dormitories from a young age. As of 2023, 36,000 children reside in dormitories spending almost 9 months away from their families each year, which can impact their social development. Many dormitories are not disability-friendly, and many do not meet national quality standards. The number of children living in dormitories has decreased over the past decade due to urbanization and inadequate conditions. Establishing schools in more remote baghs could provide children including those of herder families who are constantly on move with access to education closer to home, enabling greater parental support. UNICEF is working with Ministry of Education and relevant partners to pilot “One Bagh- One School” initiative to bring the schools closer to children and families which is fully aligned with the Ministry of Education’ concept of “Good school near me”. Skilled and incentivized teachers are essential for providing quality education to students. To attract such educators, it is necessary to implement a multifaceted strategy that includes offering competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and improved working conditions. Bringing schools closer to children and families in remote areas not only helps them keep their nodamic culture and tradition but also supports local markets by fostering community development and economic activity.
As we look to the future, it is clear that the time for action is now. By continuing to support innovative programs, bridging educational gaps, and embracing digital transformation, Mongolia can set a powerful example for the world. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with determination and a clear vision, we can ensure that every child in Mongolia has the chance to succeed and thrive in the 21st century.
By Evariste Kouassi-Komlan, UNICEF Mongolia Representative
2024.09.17