Dzud is a severe winter weather disaster in Mongolia. It involves heavy snowfall, extremely slow weather patterns, and dangerously low temperatures (sometimes dropping below -40°C). This leads to dry and hot summers, which especially affect the lives of livestock and pastoral communities.
To understand this, in rural areas where most of the population relies on livestock for their livelihood, a Dzud disaster poses a significant challenge to Mongolia’s education system.
Dzud and Education
- Reduced School Attendance
The extreme cold and challenging weather conditions make it difficult for children to attend school.
Especially for students from rural areas, transportation disruptions, road blockages, and heavy snow make it tough to get to school.
- Lack of School Facilities
Due to the absence of heating systems, some schools have limited learning spaces.
Issues such as fuel shortages, disruptions in water supply, and heating systems not functioning due to low temperatures make the learning environment difficult.
- Limited Internet and Mobile Learning Opportunities
Due to limited technological infrastructure in rural areas, remote learning processes are disrupted.
The lack of electricity and internet connectivity results in reduced success in remote education programs.
- Challenges in Maintaining the School System
Programs related to nutrition and teacher training face obstacles in being carried out.
Teachers also find it difficult to travel, which affects students’ education.
Steps Taken by UNESCO
- Securing International Support
In times of Dzud-like disasters, securing international support is vital to ensure the continuity of education.
Working in collaboration with the Mongolian government, NGOs, and other international organizations.
- Implementing Education Through Technology
Providing e-learning opportunities to rural students.
Developing learning systems using internet and mobile technology.
- Revamping Education Systems with Preparedness and New Approaches
Designing a school system that adapts to extreme weather conditions.
Building resilient education systems that can help overcome challenges like Dzud in the future.
Conclusion
Dzud poses a significant challenge to Mongolia’s education system. Reduced school attendance, lack of educational resources, and limited technological infrastructure hinder the quality of education for students.
To address these challenges, UNESCO and its partners are taking various steps and continue to work towards creating a resilient education system that can withstand such challenges in the future.