WE ARE FRIENDS
The Gonchigsumlaa Foundation, in collaboration with the Mongolian Down Syndrome Association, has implemented the "WE ARE FRIENDS" project to protect and promote children's rights and freedoms.
A law has been passed ensuring that children with Down syndrome have the right to study alongside their peers and receive a high-quality education. This initiative aims to foster inclusivity, increase awareness, and encourage the active participation of children with Down syndrome in society.
To further this goal, we launched the "WE ARE FRIENDS" photography project, which illustrates various stages of life — early childhood, school years, and employment — to enhance understanding and improve the social environment for children with Down syndrome. Through this project, we worked with general education school students to promote inclusivity and the concept of learning together.
Project Impact:
For many participating children, this was their first time meeting and spending a day with children with Down syndrome. Witnessing their joy and happiness allowed them to move beyond societal stereotypes and embrace their peers with openness and understanding. They played together, shared lessons, and helped one another — demonstrating that the project successfully achieved our goal of fostering inclusion and mutual learning.