EFP is a five-month program for young professionals interested in acquiring an increased awareness and understanding of issues affecting the conservation and security issues of the Mongolian ecosystem. It is intended that the 18 selected participants will be able to play a future leadership role in helping to sustain and improve Mongolia’s ecological heritage.

Throughout the duration of EFP, fellows will attend a series of lecture and seminar sessions presented by Mongolian and international experts on pertinent topics, and participate in site visits to experience what was discussed in the learning sessions. An awareness of the interdependence of the country’s economy and security with its natural resources, energy and health needs will be a focus of the studies and discussions. In addition, some sessions will include training workshops on leadership and management skills development, which are geared towards encouraging fellows to become spokespersons and initiators in their community for better educating Mongolian civil society on environmental issues.

Currently, the younger population is becoming more aware of and concerned about the severity and urgency of environmental issues faced by Mongolia. This is evident from the growing number of environmental organizations, clubs, online blogs and social outlets in Mongolia that pertain to environmental issues. However, this socially active group of individuals severely lacks qualified guidance and aid that would potentially allow their efforts and activism to make a tangible difference in society. Thus, it is an opportune time for the Foundation to implement a structured and comprehensive program that aids this group by giving them an opportunity to meet and learn from a broad spectrum of environmental experts and leaders in Mongolia.