The educational system of Mongolia includes nursery, kindergarten, primary, secondary, and university studies, with every administrative district (sum) hosting multiple nursery schools and kindergartens.
Key Takeaways
- Mongolia’s education system consists of nursery, kindergarten, primary, secondary, and university studies.
- The school year shifted to a 12-year system after 2008-2009.
- Education in Mongolia begins every September and lasts until June.
- Each administrative district, known as a sum, has multiple nursery and kindergarten schools.
- Unique “ger schools” exist to accommodate the nomadic way of life in rural areas.
There are also privately run nursery and kindergarten schools. Primary and secondary education once lasted for 10 years but extended to 11. The school year of 2008-2009 marks the beginning of the 12-year system. The school year in Mongolia begins every September.
School Timetable
Mongolian schools follow a standard academic calendar, similar to many other countries. The school year typically begins in September and concludes in June, with breaks for winter and summer vacations.
Each day, students attend school from Monday to Friday, with weekends off to relax and spend time with their families.
A typical school day starts early, often around 8:30 AM. Students have several classes throughout the day, covering a range of subjects, from mathematics and science to Mongolian language and literature.
While the exact schedule may vary, students typically have five to six classes a day, each lasting around 45 minutes. This structured timetable ensures that students receive a well-rounded education.
School Organization
Mongolian schools are organized into different levels, which include primary, secondary, and tertiary education.
Primary education typically spans grades 1 to 4, followed by secondary education from grades 5 to 12.
Upon completing secondary education, students can pursue higher education at colleges or universities.
One interesting aspect of Mongolian education is the “ger schools.” In rural areas, where traditional nomadic lifestyles persist, some schools are housed in portable, round tents known as gers.
These schools are designed to accommodate the nomadic way of life, allowing children to receive an education while staying close to their families and their herds.
Foreign Languages in School
In Mongolian schools, the curriculum includes the study of foreign languages, with English being the most commonly taught foreign language.
Students typically begin learning English in primary school and continue to develop their language skills throughout their education.
This emphasis on English proficiency reflects Mongolia’s growing global connections and the importance of language in the modern world.
In addition to English, some schools also offer the opportunity to study other languages, such as Russian or Chinese, depending on regional and individual preferences.
These language programs aim to equip Mongolian students with the tools they need to engage in international communication and foster cultural exchange.
Student Clubs
Beyond their academic pursuits, Mongolian students have the opportunity to engage in various extracurricular activities and student clubs.
These clubs cover a wide range of interests, allowing students to explore their passions and develop new skills.
Some of the most popular student clubs in Mongolia include sports clubs, where students can participate in activities like basketball, volleyball, and wrestling. Mongolia has a strong tradition of wrestling, and many students take part in this ancient sport.
Other clubs focus on creative and cultural pursuits, such as traditional Mongolian dance, music, and arts. These clubs celebrate Mongolia’s rich heritage and provide students with a chance to express themselves creatively.
Moreover, environmental clubs are gaining popularity as Mongolia faces challenges related to climate change and environmental conservation. Students are actively involved in efforts to protect their country’s natural beauty and biodiversity.