Experts from the educational industry believe that, in today’s rapidly changing world, financial literacy is no longer just a supplementary skill; it’s a vital life skill that every child should possess. Himanshu Yagnik, Chief Operating Officer of Zee Learn Limited, emphasises the critical role financial literacy plays in shaping responsible and informed global citizens. During an insightful interview, Yagnik shared how Zee Learn integrates financial education into its curriculum, starting from an early age, to equip students with the tools they need for sound financial decision-making.
At Zee Learn’s Mount Litera schools, the Financial Literacy Programme (FLiP) has been a flagship initiative for nearly a decade. Recognising the importance of financial education from an early stage, FLiP starts as early as Grade 4, well ahead of CBSE’s recommendations. “The programme covers essential concepts like budgeting, needs versus wants and saving versus investments. Senior students are even introduced to entry-level financial topics like stocks, mutual funds and real estate—ensuring that financial vocabulary becomes part of their daily language,” Yagnik said.
According to Yagnik, financial education is woven into practical activities that align with students’ everyday experiences. For instance, FLiP activities involve planning birthday parties or family vacations on a set budget, making theoretical concepts tangible. This hands-on approach is crucial in building a strong foundation for future financial understanding.
On the other hand, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in collaboration with Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini, has recently introduced its Financial Literacy programme at two schools in Chithode, Tamil Nadu and Macherla, Andhra Pradesh. This initiative targets students in grades 6-9, providing them with essential financial skills. By introducing financial concepts early, ACCA aims to empower students with practical knowledge and foster a generation that is financially savvy and capable of making informed decisions.
Md. Sajid Khan, Director-India at ACCA, stated, “Financial literacy is more than just a skill—it’s a crucial tool that enables individuals to make informed decisions, plan for the future and achieve their goals. By educating young minds early, we are laying the groundwork for a financially secure and prosperous future for the country. This programme is designed to inspire and equip students with the knowledge needed to confidently navigate the financial world. We are not just teaching finance; we are nurturing a generation of responsible and financially astute citizens.”
What do parents think?
Nida Zafar, a parent of an intermediate school student, highlights that financial literacy should be as essential as reading and writing. She believes that if schools incorporate these skills into their curriculum, it will give children a significant advantage in life, providing them with valuable knowledge that will serve them well beyond graduation. “I believe teaching financial literacy in schools is crucial. It’s not just about managing money; it’s about instilling confidence and responsibility. When schools introduce financial literacy programmes, they’re preparing our children for real-world challenges,” Zafar added.