Today's Stories
Politics
- Education Ministry Faces Criticism Over Lavish Conference Room Renovation
- Legal Profession Access Expanded with Overhaul of Bar Exam Eligibility
Economy
- Shivee-Ovoo Mine Ordered to Boost Worker Performance and Address Operational Risks
- Specialized Housing Finance Bank Discussed with ADB Support
- Food Prices Show Minor Fluctuations as Beef Drops Slightly
- Khovd Authorities Prioritize Stable Fuel Supply and Pricing
- Mentorship Program Expands to Support 100 Mongolian Businesses in 2025
- Khovd Province Partners with Banks to Boost Local Entrepreneurs
Infrastructure
- Unauthorized Kiosks Removed from City Center Following Municipal Crackdown
- Accessibility Initiatives Advance in Ulaanbaatar with New Urban Standards
- Delayed Equipment Procurement Leaves New Kindergarten Unused
Society
- Japan Festival Showcases Cultural Exchange and Innovation in Ulaanbaatar
- Ancient Deer Stone Monuments Studied at Morin Tolgoi Burial Site
- Traditional Foal Branding Ceremony Marks Cultural Heritage in Övörkhangai
- Traditional Lunar Calendar Highlights Auspicious Activities for August 16
- Academic Conference to Promote Legacy of 'Ulsyn Erkh' Set for October
Environment
- City Authorities Enforce Restoration After Unauthorized Green Space Removal and Land Encroachment
- Budget Cuts Challenge Air Pollution Efforts and Public Services
- Protected Area Authorities Order Removal of Non-Standard Fences in Bogd Khan Mountain Reserve
- Climate Leadership Training Set for Ulaanbaatar with Global Experts Ahead of COP30
- Selenge River's Vital Role in Regional Ecology and Tourism Development
Innovation
- Over 104,000 Children Registered for Kindergarten as Digital Enrollment Continues
- International Biology Conference to Mark 60 Years of Scientific Progress
- Digital Learning Tools Boost Science Mastery in Primary Schools
- HEKA AI Mattress Launches Locally with Advanced Sleep Technology
Health
Sports
Arts
- Local Artists Create Sand Sculptures for Annual Festival in Ömnögovi
- Short Film 'A South Facing Window' Competes at Locarno International Film Festival
Politics
Education Ministry Faces Criticism Over Lavish Conference Room Renovation
Published: 2025-08-16
The Ministry of Education has come under public scrutiny after spending nearly one billion MNT to renovate its conference room, outfitting it with leather chairs, sensor-equipped screens, and interactive smart boards. This expenditure has drawn criticism as many public schools remain overcrowded, with some classes exceeding 50 students and operating in three shifts due to insufficient facilities. The Ministry defended the renovation as a cost-saving measure, despite widespread perceptions of fiscal mismanagement. Other notable developments this week include government directives to prevent fuel shortages and price manipulation during the harvest season, and a court decision to detain Ts. Sanjaachoypel for causing serious bodily harm. Infrastructure projects such as the 4.2 km cable car line in Ulaanbaatar are progressing, with foundational work completed and metal structures being assembled.
Coverage:
Legal Profession Access Expanded with Overhaul of Bar Exam Eligibility
Published: 2025-08-16
Parliament has annulled key restrictions in the Law on Advocacy that previously required lawyers to resign from certain jobs before registering for the bar exam. Under the 2019 law, legal professionals could not simultaneously hold positions in political parties, related organizations, or engage in teaching and research (except within advocacy organizations) if they wished to qualify for advocacy practice. This created a risk of unemployment for those who failed the exam after resigning. The recent legislative change, effective from April 11, 2025, now allows lawyers to take the bar exam regardless of their current employment, enhancing their professional rights and flexibility. This move is expected to improve the legal profession's accessibility and stability, aligning with broader efforts to modernize Mongolia's legal sector. No direct quotes were provided in the official announcement.
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Economy
Shivee-Ovoo Mine Ordered to Boost Worker Performance and Address Operational Risks
Published: 2025-08-16
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar visited the Shivee-Ovoo coal mine, a key supplier for Mongolia’s energy sector, and directed management to increase worker performance evaluations by up to 50% in stages. The mine, responsible for 28% of national energy coal and a majority share for major power plants, faces operational challenges including mounting debts, shortages of diesel fuel and explosives, and a significant landslide risk that has halted extraction in affected areas. Zandanshatar emphasized the importance of stable employment and responsible management, instructing leadership to avoid further debt and inefficient purchases, and to complete all equipment maintenance before winter. He also mandated that procurement processes be standardized and more efficient. Immediate issues raised by the mine will be addressed at the next Cabinet meeting.
"Human involvement is the most important factor for a profitable and progressive mine. Therefore, create stable working conditions for employees and gradually increase performance evaluations by up to 50%." - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (montsame.mn)
Coverage:
- The task was given to increase the performance results of workers at the 'Shivee-Ovoo' mine by up to 50 percent (montsame.mn)
- "Conditions for stable work will be created for 'Shivee-Ovoo' mine workers, and performance evaluations will be increased by up to 50 percent" (ikon.mn)
Specialized Housing Finance Bank Discussed with ADB Support
Published: 2025-08-16
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar met with Asian Development Bank (ADB) Country Director Shannon Cowlin to discuss the establishment of a specialized housing finance bank. The meeting highlighted the government's focus on improving urban housing, particularly for ger district residents, and the need for international expertise in developing a tailored financial system. A working group has been formed to study and propose recommendations for the new institution. The ADB reaffirmed its commitment to supporting this initiative, building on its ongoing projects in Ulaanbaatar's ger areas. Broader topics included economic diversification, tax reform, investment promotion, and cooperation in renewable energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.
"ADB is ready to support and collaborate in establishing a bank dedicated to housing finance," - Shannon Cowlin, ADB Country Director (montsame.mn)
Coverage:
Food Prices Show Minor Fluctuations as Beef Drops Slightly
Published: 2025-08-16
The National Statistics Office (ҮСХ) released its weekly update on essential food prices, revealing minor changes across key categories. As of August 11, 2025, bone-in beef averaged 20,848 MNT per kilogram, reflecting a 1% decrease from the previous week. Boneless beef also saw a 1.1% drop, averaging 24,080 MNT per kilogram. Lamb prices remained steady at 16,809 MNT per kilogram. Among staple goods, premium packaged flour from "Altan Taria" averaged 3,358 MNT per kilogram, while first and second grades were priced at 2,424 MNT and 1,335 MNT, respectively. Vegetable prices showed mixed trends: local potatoes fell 8.8% to 3,431 MNT per kilogram, onions dropped 4.5% to 4,395 MNT, while carrots edged up 0.1% to 3,916 MNT. These shifts reflect ongoing market adjustments as supply and demand fluctuate in Ulaanbaatar's retail sector.
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Khovd Authorities Prioritize Stable Fuel Supply and Pricing
Published: 2025-08-16
Khovd province officials have met with fuel station operators to address concerns over fuel supply and pricing stability. The province, which relies on shipments from Ulaanbaatar, currently has varying fuel reserves across its more than ten stations. While transport delays have been noted, there is no reported shortage. Authorities emphasized that residents can maintain normal fuel consumption without risk of scarcity. Local government representatives announced a commitment to prevent shortages and long wait times, and to ensure price stability for fuel in the region. These measures aim to maintain public confidence and support uninterrupted economic activity in Khovd.
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Mentorship Program Expands to Support 100 Mongolian Businesses in 2025
Published: 2025-08-16
Golomt Bank has launched the fourth annual "Mentorship-2025" program, aiming to enhance the business environment for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Mongolia. This year, the program has expanded its reach, selecting 100 companies from over 300 applicants—up from 60 last year—to participate in tailored mentorship and training sessions. Founders and executives from leading Mongolian firms will serve as mentors, sharing expertise on strategic management, human resources, finance, and investment. Ten of the selected organizations will receive specialized consulting, working closely with experienced mentors as management teams to align goals and vision. The remaining 90 will participate in structured classroom-based advisory sessions focused on financial decision-making and productivity improvement. Over the past four years, participating businesses have reported increased sales, new product launches, and enhanced human resource capabilities, reflecting the program's positive impact on Mongolia's SME sector.
Coverage:
- 'Mentorship-2025' program has started (news.mn)
Khovd Province Partners with Banks to Boost Local Entrepreneurs
Published: 2025-08-16
Khovd province has formalized agreements with local branches of Mongol Bank and Khan Bank to support local entrepreneurs as part of its 2025 initiative to promote wealth creation. The provincial government has designated 2025 as the "Year of Supporting Wealth Creators" and is implementing new policies to provide interest rate subsidies for business loans. A recently approved regulation aims to foster a more favorable business environment and facilitate access to lower-interest credit for micro, small, and medium enterprises. These measures are designed to stimulate local economic growth, increase domestic production, and create new jobs by leveraging partnerships with financial institutions. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to strengthen the region's economic base and encourage sustainable development through targeted financial support.
Coverage:
Infrastructure
Unauthorized Kiosks Removed from City Center Following Municipal Crackdown
Published: 2025-08-16
Authorities in Ulaanbaatar have begun relocating 112 unauthorized kiosks (TÜTs) from 51 locations across the city center, targeting those installed without permits on public land. The move follows repeated warnings and negotiations with kiosk operators, who have expressed frustration over the destruction of their property. City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar emphasized the illegality of the practice, stating:
"It is unacceptable to pour concrete and install a kiosk in the city center, then later seek a real estate certificate for it." - Kh. Nyambaatar, Mayor (ikon.mn)
Operators were offered alternative employment opportunities, including 1,669 jobs and rental stalls in 48 markets, but only 22 have accepted so far. The city administration has warned that any remaining illegal kiosks will be forcibly removed at the owners' expense, including costs charged to officials who granted unauthorized permits. This initiative signals stricter enforcement of urban planning and property regulations in Ulaanbaatar.
Coverage:
- Kh.Nyambaatar: It is unacceptable to pour concrete and place kiosks in the city center and then pursue real estate certificates (ikon.mn)
- "It is not allowed to pour concrete and place kiosks in the city center and then pursue real estate certificates" (gogo.mn)
Accessibility Initiatives Advance in Ulaanbaatar with New Urban Standards
Published: 2025-08-16
Ulaanbaatar city officials and representatives of people with disabilities conducted an on-site assessment of public spaces and services as part of the "Let’s Get Out of the House" campaign, highlighting persistent accessibility barriers for wheelchair users. Entrances and exits at service establishments, lack of ramps, and uneven sidewalks remain significant obstacles. The city is currently standardizing 59.6 km of sidewalks with natural stone to improve accessibility for all residents.
"Six out of ten people with disabilities in Mongolia acquired them later in life. The lack of ramps at service establishments and the absence of unified standards for sidewalks create difficulties for people with disabilities. We are implementing the 'Let’s Get Out of the House' campaign as part of our commitment under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities." - MP O. Saranchuluun (ikon.mn)
Officials also discussed the need for staff training in public transport and the development of a 13-section guide with 32 criteria to enhance inclusivity, signaling a coordinated push for a more accessible urban environment.
Coverage:
- "For people with wheelchairs, the biggest obstacle when using service organizations is the issue of entrances and exits" (ikon.mn)
- Efforts are being made to make Ulaanbaatar city a unified standard and accessible city (urug.mn)
Delayed Equipment Procurement Leaves New Kindergarten Unused
Published: 2025-08-16
A newly constructed kindergarten (No. 341) in Ulaanbaatar’s Songinokhairkhan district remains unused eight months after completion due to the Ministry of Education’s failure to procure essential equipment and furniture. Over 250 children, including more than 50 with special needs, are unable to enroll for the 2025-2026 academic year, exacerbating pressure on already overcrowded schools in the Bayankhoshuu area. City officials have repeatedly requested the Ministry to resolve the issue, but delays attributed to pending tenders persist. Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin highlighted the broader impact, noting that 13 schools and 20 kindergartens citywide face similar obstacles, affecting over 14,000 students.
"We have lost eight whole months because the Ministry of Education has not resolved the procurement, citing reasons such as 'the tender is pending.' This is not our legal responsibility, but the Ministry’s." - Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin (urug.mn)
The situation underscores ongoing challenges in aligning infrastructure development with operational readiness in Mongolia’s education sector.
Coverage:
Society
Japan Festival Showcases Cultural Exchange and Innovation in Ulaanbaatar
Published: 2025-08-16
The "Japan Festival in Mongolia-2025" is being held at Sukhbaatar Square, offering attendees a hands-on experience with Japanese culture, cuisine, traditional crafts, and technology. The event, supported for the fourth consecutive year by Mobicom Group, aims to strengthen bilateral relations and promote Japanese heritage among Mongolian youth. Activities include workshops on making traditional Japanese omamori charms, interactive booths for anime and gaming enthusiasts, and opportunities to sample Japanese food and technology. Mobicom is also presenting its 2023-2024 sustainability report and offering gifts via its MonPay app. The festival is scheduled for August 16-17, providing a platform for cultural exchange and business engagement between the two countries. No direct quotes were provided in the article.
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Ancient Deer Stone Monuments Studied at Morin Tolgoi Burial Site
Published: 2025-08-16
Archaeological research at the Morin Tolgoi burial site in Tuv Province's Altanbulag soum has revealed three intricately carved deer stone monuments integrated into a rectangular burial complex. First identified and studied by archaeologist D. Navaan in the 1980s, these granite monuments feature elaborate engravings of deer, sun motifs, weapons, and other symbolic imagery. The carvings, attributed to the late Bronze Age (12th–8th centuries BCE), provide insight into the region's ancient funerary practices and artistic traditions. The site, located near the Tuul River and Khazaan Khairkhan mountain, contains over 120 rectangular burials and 24 Xiongnu-era graves, highlighting its significance as a major archaeological complex in central Mongolia. The deer stones' unique artistic features, such as stylized deer with elongated beaks and ornate antlers, underscore the cultural and historical value of the site for understanding early nomadic societies in the region.
Coverage:
- TUV: The horse-headed stone statue (montsame.mn)
Traditional Foal Branding Ceremony Marks Cultural Heritage in Övörkhangai
Published: 2025-08-16
A traditional foal branding ceremony was held in Övörkhangai province, highlighting the enduring cultural practices of Mongolia's nomadic herders. The event, led by herder Sh. Mönkhbat and his family, involved branding foals with ancestral marks during the autumn season, a practice that signifies ownership and the continuation of family heritage. The ceremony included communal festivities, traditional games, and the sharing of airag (fermented mare's milk), reflecting the social importance of the event. Branding is performed with care to avoid harming the animal, and the process is accompanied by blessings for prosperity. Sh. Mönkhbat, who has spent most of his life herding horses, emphasized his deep connection to the animals:
"Since the age of six, I have ridden fast horses and spent most of my life on horseback, so I love horses deeply and cannot be apart from them. The Mongol horse is a symbol of spirit." - Sh. Mönkhbat (montsame.mn)
The ceremony underscores the role of horse culture in rural Mongolian identity and the intergenerational transmission of traditions.
Coverage:
- UVURKHANGAI: The ceremony of branding foals /report/ (montsame.mn)
Traditional Lunar Calendar Highlights Auspicious Activities for August 16
Published: 2025-08-16
The lunar calendar for August 16 outlines favorable and unfavorable activities based on traditional Mongolian astrology. According to the guidance, individuals born in the years of the Ox and Rooster are advised that this day is generally auspicious for most undertakings, while those born in the years of the Pig and Rat should exercise caution. The day is considered suitable for resolving disputes, performing rituals to reverse curses, settling debts, and conducting ceremonies related to land and spirits. Conversely, it is deemed inauspicious for cutting trees, laying building foundations, or performing cleansing rituals. The calendar also notes that cutting or trimming hair on this day is believed to bring material abundance, including goods and food. These traditional advisories continue to influence daily decisions and cultural practices across Mongolia.
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Academic Conference to Promote Legacy of 'Ulsyn Erkh' Set for October
Published: 2025-08-16
Researchers and civil society groups are joining forces with major universities to organize an academic conference marking the 111th anniversary of "Ulsyn Erkh" (State Authority), a seminal work by renowned Mongolian enlightener J. Tseveen. The event, scheduled for October, is a collaborative effort involving Amnesty International Mongolia, the National Center for Integrated Development, and universities including the National University of Mongolia, Shikhikhutag, and Otgontenger. Scholars and historians are invited to submit research papers by September 10.
"Ulsyn Erkh" is widely regarded by historians as a foundational document that influenced the drafting of Mongolia's first constitution in 1924, and its principles have inspired the establishment of national assemblies and educational institutions. The original manuscript is preserved at the National Central Archive. The annual conference aims to further disseminate the work's ideas and historical significance within Mongolian society.
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Environment
City Authorities Enforce Restoration After Unauthorized Green Space Removal and Land Encroachment
Published: 2025-08-16
Ulaanbaatar city officials are addressing violations involving the unauthorized removal of green spaces and illegal expansion of property boundaries by private companies. During construction of a heating pipeline under a World Bank-supported project, Hangiltzag LLC removed roadside trees without permission near the Khunnu 2222 residential area. The company has begun restoration efforts and plans to replant trees by October 1. Meanwhile, Nomin Realtor LLC extended its fence 2-3 meters beyond its allotted land, encroaching on public space. City authorities have issued warnings and set deadlines for compliance. If violations persist, officials warn of forced land clearance and possible revocation of land rights.
"Private enterprises must carry out construction according to their cadastral boundaries. Public spaces cannot be restricted, making pedestrian movement difficult. If Nomin Realtor LLC does not vacate the land within the specified period, we will enforce clearance under Article 57.4 of the Land Law and may revoke land rights as per Article 40.1.1." - T. Davaadalai, First Deputy Governor (ikon.mn)
Coverage:
- Violations of destroying green spaces and building fences exceeding their owned land are being rectified (ikon.mn)
- Violations of destroying green spaces without permission are being rectified (urug.mn)
Budget Cuts Challenge Air Pollution Efforts and Public Services
Published: 2025-08-16
The Mongolian government has allocated ₮5 billion for air pollution reduction in the 2026 budget, but officials acknowledge this is insufficient for meaningful progress. The Ministry of Environment's total budget will decrease by ₮77.4 billion compared to the previous year, impacting operational and investment spending across 87 agencies. Energy sector challenges persist, with outdated Russian equipment and a major turbine failure at TPP-3 raising concerns for Ulaanbaatar's winter heating. Education reforms include introducing polo shirts as an option for primary school uniforms and plans to substantially increase teachers' base salaries.
"Teachers' base salaries are the lowest among public service employees. There is a real need to significantly raise them." - Minister of Education P. Naranbayar (gogo.mn)
Additionally, a new independent cardiac center will be established at the Third State Hospital with $56.3 million in funding from European and Luxembourgish sources. The government also aims to reduce investment costs at Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC by ₮200 billion and improve transparency in anti-corruption efforts.
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Protected Area Authorities Order Removal of Non-Standard Fences in Bogd Khan Mountain Reserve
Published: 2025-08-16
Authorities overseeing the Bogd Khan Mountain Strictly Protected Area have issued a directive requiring all land users—both individuals and organizations—to dismantle non-standard fences by October 1, 2025. The move follows concerns that sharp-tipped and non-compliant fencing has caused injuries and fatalities among local wildlife. The administration emphasized that compliance with the UCS0304B:2025 standard, which mandates wildlife-friendly fencing, is now compulsory. Failure to act within the specified timeframe will result in strict enforcement measures in cooperation with relevant agencies. The directive also reminds land users to review their land use agreements and ensure all documentation and legal obligations are up to date, warning that unresolved violations may lead to penalties. This enforcement reflects a broader effort to align land use practices with environmental protection laws and safeguard the region's biodiversity.
Coverage:
Climate Leadership Training Set for Ulaanbaatar with Global Experts Ahead of COP30
Published: 2025-08-16
The Climate Reality Project, founded by Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former US Vice President Al Gore, will host its 61st Climate Reality Leadership Corps training in Ulaanbaatar on October 2–3, 2025. This event is part of the 2025 REALITY® tour, which precedes the pivotal COP30 UN Climate Change Conference in Brazil. The training aims to equip participants with the latest climate science, advocacy skills, and strategies to accelerate Mongolia’s transition from coal to renewable energy, address air pollution, and protect traditional nomadic culture and biodiversity. Attendees will have direct access to high-level speakers, including Al Gore, who emphasized the urgency of change:
"The reality of the climate crisis is acutely felt in Mongolia. The country now faces a unique opportunity to choose a different path for development." - Al Gore, former US Vice President (itoim.mn)
Successful participants will join a global network of over 3.8 million climate advocates.
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Selenge River's Vital Role in Regional Ecology and Tourism Development
Published: 2025-08-16
The Selenge River, traversing Selenge province, is a critical waterway in northern Mongolia, supporting both ecological diversity and tourism potential. Flowing through scenic valleys, particularly at the Eg-Selenge and Orkhon-Selenge confluences, the river system encompasses over 20,000 km of tributaries—accounting for more than 40% of Mongolia's river network. The Selenge supplies about 50% of Lake Baikal's water, making it the largest contributor to the lake. Its mineral-rich, hydrocarbonate waters support 26 fish species, including valuable sturgeon and taimen, and serve as a key spawning ground. The river's basin covers 447,000 sq km, with 55% within Mongolia, and its floodplain and wetlands are important for biodiversity. The Selenge's unique hydrology and fertile valleys offer significant opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable development in the region.
Coverage:
- SELENGE: The beautiful Selenge River (montsame.mn)
Innovation
Over 104,000 Children Registered for Kindergarten as Digital Enrollment Continues
Published: 2025-08-16
Digital registration for kindergartens in Ulaanbaatar remains active, with 104,031 children confirmed as of 17:00, representing 76.7% of the expected total for the 2025-2026 academic year. The capital anticipates accommodating 135,582 children out of the nationwide need for 278,290 preschool places. Age breakdowns show steady participation: 22,762 two-year-olds, 24,693 three-year-olds, 27,563 four-year-olds, and 29,031 five-year-olds have registered. The process will continue until August 18. Authorities advise parents to verify and confirm both their own and their child's address information, and to make decisions regarding continued attendance if the child was previously enrolled. Any changes in residence must be finalized by August 15, 2025, to ensure eligibility. This ongoing digitalization reflects efforts to streamline access to early childhood education and manage urban demand efficiently.
Coverage:
- 104 thousand children have been registered in the kindergarten registration system (gogo.mn)
- 104 thousand children have been registered for kindergarten enrollment (urug.mn)
International Biology Conference to Mark 60 Years of Scientific Progress
Published: 2025-08-16
Leading scientists from renowned institutions, including Cambridge University and the University of Wyoming, will convene in Ulaanbaatar on July 18-19 for the IBCM-2025 international scientific conference. The event, organized by the Institute of Biology of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, commemorates six decades of biological sciences in the country. The conference will showcase major achievements, historical developments, and innovative research in the field, with distinguished researchers such as Professor William J. Sutherland, known for his contributions to evidence-based conservation policy and global ecological risk assessment, sharing their latest findings. The gathering is expected to foster international collaboration and highlight Mongolia’s growing role in the global scientific community.
Coverage:
- Top biological science researchers will gather (unuudur.mn)
Digital Learning Tools Boost Science Mastery in Primary Schools
Published: 2025-08-16
A joint project between Mongolia's National Institute for Educational Research and Japan's JICA has introduced comprehensive digital resources for 4th and 5th grade science classes, including 20 video lessons, worksheets, and teacher guides. The initiative, piloted since September 2023, showed marked improvement in students' mastery of curriculum content and increased engagement. Following positive comparative research, the materials will be made available nationwide via the "medle" platform. Project leader Chico Yamaoka highlighted the project's success:
"The comparative study showed good results, so these lessons will be accessible nationwide this academic year." - Chico Yamaoka, Project Leader (gogo.mn)
Researchers noted that teachers benefited from reduced lesson preparation time and improved understanding of science pedagogy, while students became more attentive and expressive during lessons. The project underscores the potential for digital tools to address learning gaps and modernize classroom instruction.
Coverage:
- "Students have fully mastered the textbook content as they started using electronic devices" (gogo.mn)
HEKA AI Mattress Launches Locally with Advanced Sleep Technology
Published: 2025-08-16
The HEKA AI Mattress, a product recognized for its innovative sleep technology, has officially entered the Mongolian market. Developed by IFuture Lab in Silicon Valley in collaboration with Stanford University researchers, the mattress adapts intelligently to the user's body shape, aiming to improve sleep quality and prevent future health issues. The product has received the 2025 Medtech Breakthrough Award for Best Sleep Quality Improvement Technology. According to the World Health Organization, 2.8 billion people globally face sleep issues, while 1.2 billion suffer from back problems. The HEKA AI Mattress is already distributed in over 30 countries and is positioned as a preventive investment in health, targeting issues such as poor concentration, chronic pain, and cardiovascular risks. The launch reflects growing demand for health-focused lifestyle solutions in the region.
Coverage:
- Smart Mattress (ikon.mn)
Health
Seoul Bonbridge Hospital Signs Cooperation Agreement with Mongolian Sports Organizations
Published: 2025-08-16
A memorandum of understanding has been signed between Seoul Bonbridge Hospital, a leading South Korean institution specializing in sports injuries, and key Mongolian sports organizations. The agreement aims to facilitate knowledge exchange in medical fields, provide advanced medical services and treatment for athletes with sports injuries, and organize training on first aid and sports taping for taekwondo coaches, athletes, and referees. The signing ceremony included representatives from the Mongolian Taekwondo Association, the National Paralympic Committee, and the Center for Sports Medicine and Research. The initiative was organized by L. Tuvshinjargal, the Mongolian Taekwondo Association's representative in South Korea, who was acknowledged for his efforts. This partnership is expected to enhance the quality of sports medicine and injury management for Mongolian athletes, fostering closer ties with South Korea's medical sector.
Coverage:
Sports
Spirit Selects MOUZ as Opponent, Setting Up Vitality vs The MongolZ Semifinal Clash
Published: 2025-08-16
The semifinal matchups for the second season of the "BLAST Bounty 2025" esports tournament have been set following the traditional team selection process. Team Spirit made the first pick, choosing to face MOUZ, which automatically paired Vitality against The MongolZ. The selection was announced on stage by Spirit's representative, Donk, who offered little commentary:
"Nothing to say." - Donk, Team Spirit (news.mn)
MOUZ's player xertioN expressed anticipation for a rematch, referencing past encounters:
"It's great that Donk has given us a chance for revenge. Just seeing his face reminds me of my nightmares. We can't wait to get our payback." - xertioN, MOUZ (news.mn)
Vitality's coach XTQZZZ cautioned against underestimating The MongolZ, citing their impressive performance against Aurora and predicting another exciting match. The semifinals are scheduled for August 16, with MOUZ vs Spirit at 22:00 and Vitality vs The MongolZ at 01:00.
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Arts
Local Artists Create Sand Sculptures for Annual Festival in Ömnögovi
Published: 2025-08-16
The seventh annual Sand Dune Festival in Dalanzadgad, Ömnögovi province, continues to attract visitors with its unique sand art and sculpture exhibitions. This year, local artists crafted ephemeral sand sculptures, a practice that has grown in popularity since its introduction by the late State Honored Cultural Figure Sanzaiin Borkhüü and his son, Chuluunbaatar, at the Khongor Sand Dunes. Sand sculpture, made only from sand and water, is recognized for its minimal environmental impact and the significant skill and effort required. The festival's focus on sustainable, locally inspired art highlights the region's commitment to cultural heritage and eco-friendly tourism, drawing both domestic and international attention to Ömnögovi's creative community.
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Short Film 'A South Facing Window' Competes at Locarno International Film Festival
Published: 2025-08-16
Director P. Lkhagvadulam's short film "A South Facing Window" has been selected for the competitive section of the 78th Locarno International Film Festival, with its premiere held last Sunday. The film, featuring lead actors M. Azzaya and M. Altanshagai and produced by Katya Khazak, is among 40 short films from 25 countries vying for awards at the festival. Over 50 artists from Mongolia, France, and Hong Kong contributed to the project, which artistically explores how a young couple attempts to resolve their strained relationship. Lkhagvadulam is recognized for previous successes at Cannes, Toronto, and Venice film festivals with works such as "Shiluus," "September Snow," and "Gentle Breeze." In 2023, she was named one of 18 emerging directors to watch by Screendaily. The film's international collaboration and festival selection highlight the growing global presence of Mongolian cinema.
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