Contribution to Human Development, Training, and Education
Oyu Tolgoi continues to consistently contribute to the long-term development and preparation of skilled miners, engineers, and industry professionals.
- Oyu Tolgoi has been recognised as an “Organization Supporting Future Engineers” by the Mongolian National Mining Association for its Joint Geotechnical Program, implemented in collaboration with Rio Tinto Mongolia and the Mongolian University of Science and Technology (MUST) since 2021. A USD2.42 million cooperation agreement (2021–2027) signed with MUST to train mining geotechnical engineers and establish an international research center. Under this partnership, two undergraduate cohorts have successfully graduated, with 38 geotechnical engineers, of whom 19 are currently employed at Oyu Tolgoi and contractor companies. At present, 105 students are enrolled at the bachelor’s level, including 47 students receiving full scholarships.
Between 2022 and 2023, project funding supported the provision of core geotechnical engineering textbooks, the establishment of a fully equipped computer laboratory with Rocscience software, and the setup of research laboratories for detailed rock and soil analysis. In total, more than USD 400,000 worth of equipment, computers, and training materials was provided.
Four pilot projects, with a combined value of USD 40,000, have been successfully completed, and two research projects totalling USD 200,000 are currently underway. These initiatives contribute to strengthening the research capacity of academic staff and support the identification and resolution of key sector challenges through evidence‑based, scientifically informed approaches. https://shorturl.at/mqCQW
- Rio Tinto has established the “South Gobi Underground Mass Mining Institute” (SGUMMI) in Mongolia under the leadership of Professor Andre van As from the University of Queensland, Australia. The institute has commenced delivering practical training at Oyu Tolgoi. SGUMMI began curriculum development in 2024 and plans to train both domestic and international underground mining specialists between 2025 and 2027. As part of the programme, a comprehensive 10‑module practical training course is being delivered at the Oyu Tolgoi mine, led by leading scholars and professors from world‑class universities in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The first cohort of 27 participants successfully completed the programme and received their certificates on 5 December 2025.
In 2026, SGUMMI will open its programmes to mining professionals globally, providing broader access to world‑class training, expertise, and mining technologies. https://shorturl.at/Y5Baj
- In the 2025–2026 academic year, 60 outstanding students received their scholarship certificates under Oyu Tolgoi’s Domestic Scholarship Programme. The programme fully covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, and dormitory expenses, and also provides students with access to personal development programmes. Since 2010, Oyu Tolgoi has supported 1,375 young people in pursuing higher education, helping them grow into skilled professionals and responsible citizens. https://shorturl.at/doBGG