Empowering a Teacher to Transform a Community

Shaping Safer Spaces for Children at School No.73

Bayarsaikhan’s Chuluuntsetseg, a primary school teacher at General Education School No. 73 in Ulaanbaatar, has turned her decade of teaching experience into a mission for change. As part of the “Establishing School-based  Child Protection Mechanism in Mongolia” project led by Save the Children, she has embraced a transformative approach that prioritizes safety, mutual respect, and holistic development in her classroom and school community.

A Teacher’s Journey of Transformation

Two years ago, Chuluuntsetseg began her journey as a project trainer. Through Save the Children’s training on Promoting Non-Violent Methods in Students’ Learning and Development Processes, she discovered the critical role educators play in shaping a peaceful, violence-free society.

“I’ve learned to teach with compassion, communicate respectfully, and treat students with dignity,” she said. “Now, I don’t just teach my students; I also engage their parents and our community, fostering awareness of human rights and humane values.”

Her growth as a trainer and mentor has not only enhanced her teaching but also influenced over 60 of her colleagues, including 36 primary school teachers. Chuluuntsetseg’s guidance has inspired her peers to adopt child-centered teaching methods, leading to a ripple effect of positive change.

Building Safer Environments, Inside and Out

With the project’s support, School No. 73 has undergone a remarkable transformation. The school implemented safety-focused improvements, such as:

Padded fire extinguisher cases in hallways to prevent injuries. Personal lockers for students, reducing the physical strain of heavy schoolbags. Mandatory shoe-changing policies, improving hygiene and comfort in classrooms. Outside the school, collaboration with government agencies led to the removal of unsafe car garages and the creation of a secure parking lot. Roads near the school and the Narnii Bridge area were equipped with protective barriers, ensuring students’ safety during their commute.

Students Leading the Way

In Chuluuntsetseg’s 5B class, students have taken ownership of their learning environment. Guided by their teacher, they established classroom rules through a democratic process, fostering respect, responsibility, and a positive atmosphere.

“Our class thrives because of the values we’ve built together,” she shared. “Students now prepare independently for arts festivals and other school events. They’re confident and proud of their contributions.”

Engaging Parents as Partners

Recognizing the importance of family engagement, Chuluuntsetseg extended her training efforts to parents. By equipping them with knowledge and tools to support their children, she strengthened the partnership between home and school. This collaboration has further enriched the school’s child protection efforts.

A Bright Future for Child Protection

School No. 73 now stands as a beacon of success, with both its internal and external environments made safer and more nurturing. The project has fostered a culture of collaboration, respect, and proactive problem-solving, proving that child protection is a shared responsibility.

Reflecting on her journey, Chuluuntsetseg said:”Teaching is my dream profession, and being part of this project has made that dream even more fulfilling. I’ve grown as an educator and a leader, and I’m proud of the positive impact we’ve achieved together.”

The “Establishing School-based  Child Protection Mechanism in Mongolia” project showcases the profound difference that dedicated educators and collaborative efforts can make. With teachers like Chuluuntsetseg at the helm, the future for Mongolia’s children looks brighter, safer, and full of potential.