Under the programme, youths from Baganuur, in the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar, are trained to be journalists through a district-wide club.

There are currently 2,787 Mongolian children being sponsored by Malaysians, whose contributions allow them to be equipped with journalism skills.

One teacher, Zoljargal, tells FMT that the club allows members to voice out issues that are important to them, with its focus on child-oriented projects, activism and child-friendly reporting.

The club’s members are of different backgrounds, opinions and attitudes.

“We accept our differences and listen to what each other has to say,” says 15-year-old Khaliun, who credits her innate curiosity and adventurous streak for her interest in journalism.

“Having to prepare the news independently; spread the news to others; do research; meet many new people; and the opportunity to hear different stories attracted my attention,” she tells FMT.

Suvd-Erdene, 17, is eager to play her part in making a difference through the programme.

“The problem-solving process is very slow in Mongolia. Both adults and children lack the chance to develop and participate equally in our society,” she says.

“I would like to fix this gap, and change the mindset and misbehaviour of the people.”

The youths work on topics like World Children’s Day and issues such as the protection and discipline of children. These might seem like serious matters, but 16-year-old Nasanjargal is confident she and her peers are up to the task.

“I am very proud to be a young journalist. We are encouraged to speak up and talk to the adults, asking them to consider our thoughts and feelings when they make decisions that will affect us.”

She, too, believes the time is right for meaningful change. “I hope to be able to run a campaign that will help overcome the problems faced by children; that all children can look forward to a bright future.”

An unsustainable career?

This endeavour by World Vision is especially important in a country where journalism is not necessarily held in high regard.

Lamenting that the older generation considers it an unsustainable career, Nasanjargal says, “This kind of thinking relates to their lack of information about social journalism.”

According to Zoljargal, journalism is often considered to be a “man’s job”, but the number of female students in the club is encouraging.

“We recognise the importance of having gender equality in this profession,” she says, adding that female journalists are often not paid as well as their male counterparts, and working women are usually saddled with household responsibilities.

“Journalism is a busy job, but women are great multitaskers and are capable, too.

“To evolve into a healthy society and to have healthy journalism, gender issues should not get in the way.”