Mongolia holds national jamboree in its own ground for first time
Although Mongolia is a young Scouting nation, it has been conducting its national jamborees regularly since 1996. What's new in this year's jamboree was the first time the Scout Association of Mongolia (SAM) held its jamboree in its own grounds which they have acquired and developed. Basic facilities were installed with the support of Boy Scouts America through the United States Fund for International Scouting (USFIS).
The 4th National Scout Jamboree began on 2nd July 2010, located 65 km northwest of Ulaanbaatar, in Bayangol locality in the Tuv province, under the theme “Together We Can.” Almost all the participants traveled by train from Ulaanbaatar for hours and then walked seven kilometers while their luggages were loaded in trucks.
Over 800 Scouts came from all provinces of Mongolia, some even traveled over 1500 km for 4-5 days by bus and train to reach the campsite.
The campsite is a vast green land, equipped with electricity, tube well, large dinning session hall, staff quarters, and nine Mongolian traditional houses called Ger. Toilets were built at the site through USFIS support.
Jamboree activities comprised of adventure including the Global Development Village. A group of over 50 young adults, all employed but were happy to volunteer in running the jamboree activities. It was their first jamboree and they immersed themselves into the Scouting way of camplife. Their week together has apparently sparked their curiosity and interest in Scouting.
The opening ceremony was held at the camp arena on a decorated stage of colourful lights where traditional countryside Mongolian dances were performed. A special message from the Minister of Youth of the Government of Mongolia was read out by the former Chief Commissioner. World Organization of the Scout Movement, Asia-Pacific Region Regional Director Abdullah Rasheed welcomed the participants on behalf of the region and thanked Boy Scouts of America for its support in developing the Mongolian Scout Centre. The opening ceremony came to a close with all sub camp chiefs and their assistants made a special rendition of a popular English song accompanied with a dance steps that thrilled the participants.
