Back to school

The 2017-2018 school year kicked off today as general education schools nationwide celebrate the commencement of the academic year. This year, the commencement of the academic year will be different for university students and schoolchildren, with universities beginning their year on September 4.

In a tradition started by ex-President Ts. Elbegdorj, the President used to teach the first lesson of the year that was broadcast on Mongolian National Broadcasting (MNB) channel across the country. This year however, President Kh. Battulga has announced that he will not be teaching the first lesson.

The Traffic Police Department has announced that license plate restrictions will still apply as September 1 is not a public holiday. The increase of traffic is likely to be offset by the mayor’s decision to nullify the restriction on left turns on Peace Avenue and the move by universities to start its academic year on September 4.

Outside of the celebrations of the first day of school, there have been few topics of debate and speculation leading up to September 1. Mainly the issue of a potential teacher strike has been at the center of attention. As many as 32,000 teachers have joined a movement to demand a salary increase, threatening to strike on September 1.

However, recent reports have indicated that teachers may not go on strike after a recent meeting with Minister of Education G. Chuluunbaatar. On August 30, unconfirmed reports indicated that around 10,000 teachers conducted a peaceful protest at Sukhbaatar Square, with the organizers saying that they will continue their efforts but will not strike on September 1.