AmCham Mongolia has recognized World Vision Mongolia’s Kherlen School Innovative WASH Project as one of the most innovative social responsibility initiatives of the year. The award celebrates a simple belief: meaningful innovation does not only come from technology but from human-centered design and strong partnerships.

Kherlen Soum’s #8 Primary School, built decades ago and originally designed as a kindergarten, had long struggled with outdated and overcrowded facilities. Toilets were not child‑friendly, water access was unreliable, and many children—especially those with disabilities—could not use the bathrooms independently. Parents worried about hygiene. Teachers worried about their health. Students often missed class due to preventable issues.

This is where the project began: with a vision for dignity, safety, and equal access.

With funding from kind investors from Hong Kong and support from local authorities, the school received a fully upgraded, inclusive WASH system. A hybrid solar‑powered deep water well now delivers clean water reliably to over 1,150 students, teachers and staff. Newly renovated indoor toilets and handwashing stations are bright, safe, age‑appropriate, and accessible for all children. Water purifiers ensure clean drinking water throughout the school.

A smart water distribution point outside the school now provides 24/7 access to safe water for 200 nearby households—strengthening the school’s role as a community hub.

Growing More Than Clean Water

The project also established a 60m² greenhouse, helping enrich the school lunch program with fresh vegetables while teaching students about gardening, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship. Children now learn by doing—planting trees, caring for seedlings, and taking pride in a greener schoolyard.

Hygiene behaviors have improved as students participate in creative learning activities, including design hackathons, health days, and the student-led “School Doctor” club.

For many children, the change is deeply personal. One seven-year-old girl with albinism shared: “Now I can go to the toilet by myself. I feel safe. I feel included.” Stories like hers remind us that WASH is not only infrastructure—it is dignity, confidence, and hope. 

A long-term cooperation agreement ensures the sustainability of the deep well, greenhouse, and WASH facilities. Local authorities now plan to replicate the model in other schools, expanding its impact far beyond one community.

This award-winning project demonstrates what becomes possible when civil society and the private sector work together with a shared purpose. We extend our sincere gratitude to all partners who helped bring safe water, healthy environments, and renewed confidence to the children of Kherlen.