Implementation of the “Graduation Approach” Program to Empower Independent Living

The Ministry for Family, Labour and Social Protection of Mongolia, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), recently organized a social protection forum to address critical issues, including poverty, unemployment, food security, access to the labor market, social welfare, and the challenges posed by climate change.

 

One of the forum’s highlights was the “Graduation Approach” program, which has been a highly successful initiative jointly implemented by the ministry and ADB over the past three decades. The program aims to assist low-income citizens in transitioning toward self-sufficiency and independent living through a structured and holistic approach.

 

Key Achievements and Future Directions:

1. Support for People with Disabilities

• Employment support centers have been established in six provinces to enhance job opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

• Mongolia, home to 112,000 individuals with disabilities, is working to ensure the sustainability of these centers and promote their social participation and independence.

2. Programs for Active Aging

• Initiatives to support healthy and active aging for the elderly have shown promising results.

• Plans are underway to establish model centers that focus on long-term care, enabling elderly citizens to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, contingent on the availability of resources.

 

The Graduation Approach, alongside these complementary programs, highlights the government’s commitment to improving the social protection system and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. By developing greater participation and independence, these efforts contribute to long-term poverty reduction and social inclusion across Mongolia.