This year, as part of the "Milk Program," Ulaanbaatar will provide milk to 189,600 students in grades 1-5.
Starting in 2024, the governor's office will begin regular distribution of milk for 19,000 students in select schools in the city, doing so two to three times a week. The capital's budget for 2026 allocates 8.9 billion tugriks to expand the program, which will allow milk to be offered to 189,000 elementary school students in public schools once a week.
According to data from the governor's office, surveys among students and their parents in schools receiving milk since 2024 show that milk, rich in vitamin D and calcium, contributes to improved dental health and strengthens the immune system, as well as reduces the risk of bone fragility in children. Thus, the costs for milk will be distributed: one day will be covered by the Governor's Administration, one day by local and district authorities, and one day by parents. This will allow students to receive milk three times a week, which, in turn, should positively affect their physical development, health, and academic performance. International experience shows that in countries such as China, South Korea, and Japan, where children are regularly provided with milk, there is an increase in average height. To support the growth and development of children and strengthen their physical immunity, a targeted program called "Milk Immunity" will be implemented starting in 2024.
