Graduation Approach Pilot Program Leads to 30–40% Increase in Household Income

The Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Protection, with support from the Asian Development Bank, launched the “Graduation Approach Pilot Program” in June 2022. The program targets 1,259 households in the Bayanzurkh, Songinokhairkhan, and Chingeltei districts, equipping them with training in life skills, business, and technical skills. These households are also provided with funding and equipment to start businesses in their chosen fields, along with comprehensive support for business development.

 

A working group, led by the State Secretary of the Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Protection and supported by professional management and guidance, held a meeting to evaluate the program’s progress, outcomes, and challenges.

 

Results of the Program:

• 61% of the households involved acquired 2–3 business and technical skills to operate their selected businesses.

• 71% of households effectively utilized their capital and began generating income.

• Compared to 2021 baseline data, the average monthly income of participating households increased by 30–40% or more by the first quarter of 2024.

 

During the meeting, Ms. L. Munkhzul, State Secretary, praised the effective work of district teams based on reports from the heads of the social welfare offices in the three districts. She outlined key areas of focus to further enhance the program’s impact:

• Organizing publicity and marketing activities to connect products created by households with broader markets.

• Holding product sales events to promote and sell household products.

• Implementing specific measures to address challenges identified in the pilot program and following up on related recommendations.

• Encouraging group organization among program participants to ensure the effective use of equipment provided.

• Collaborating with relevant organizations to address behavioral challenges among households showing limited progress and promoting active participation.

The Graduation Approach Pilot Program demonstrates significant potential in improving household livelihoods and offers valuable insights for scaling similar initiatives across Mongolia.