A Century of Camping: ICDC Mongolia 2026 Concludes in Ulaanbaatar

The echoes of laughter and the spirit of global collaboration still linger at the International Children’s Complex Nairamdal (ICCN). From April 19–23, 2026, history was made as Mongolia hosted its very first International Camp Directors Course (ICDC), marking a dual milestone: the professionalization of local camp leadership and the grand 100th anniversary of the establishment of children’s camps in Mongolia.

A Landmark Celebration

In a year dedicated to honoring a century of Mongolian camping heritage, the National Camping Association of Mongolia (NCAM), in partnership with the International Camping Fellowship (ICF), brought this world-class training to the heart of Central Asia.

The event kicked off with powerful opening addresses that set a tone of pride and progress:

Ms. Tuvshin, President of the NCAM, highlighted the evolution of Mongolian camps from their humble beginnings to modern-day educational hubs.
Ms. Baljinnyam Bayarsaikhan, Director of the General Authority of Child and Family Development Protection, emphasized the government’s commitment to child safety and development.
Tennant Kiu, ICF Board Member and ICDC Liaison, officially welcomed Mongolia into the prestigious global network of ICDC host nations.

The Program: Global Standards, Local Impact

The ICDC is an intensive, immersive curriculum designed exclusively by the ICF for camp directors and management teams. Over the five-day residency at Nairamdal, 32 dedicated participants engaged in a rigorous exchange of ideas, focusing on:

Risk Management & Safety: Protecting the next generation of campers.
Program Design: Integrating Mongolian culture with modern experiential learning.
Staff Leadership: Building resilient teams to guide young minds.
Global Networking: Connecting Ulaanbaatar to a network of over 1,000 alumni worldwide.

“To host the ICDC during our centennial year is not just a celebration of the past, but a bridge to the future. Our directors are now equipped with international certification and a global perspective.” — NCAM Representative

Joining the Global Alumni

By completing this course, the 32 graduates join an elite group of professionals from countries including Canada, Spain, Singapore, and Australia. As they return to their respective camps across the Mongolian steppes and beyond, they carry with them the #ThanksToCamp spirit and the tools to ensure the next 100 years of camping are even more impactful than the last.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026!

#зуслан100 #ThanksToCamp #ICDC #CampProfessional @icf_campingfellowship