Volkshochschul-Zentrum Heidekreis Launches 'Financial Driver's License' for Students
The Volkshochschul-Zentrum Heidekreis, along with local savings banks, has introduced a 'financial driver's license' workshop for students in grades 9 to 11. This initiative aims to address the lack of financial education in schools, with 30% of young people aged 14 to 24 reporting they've learned little about economics and finance at school.
The workshop, taught by instructor Gesa Meyland, covers a range of financial topics tailored to the students' age and school. These include handling money, investing basics, cryptocurrencies, retirement planning, insurance, and loans, with a strong focus on debt prevention. Students at Soltau high school, for instance, delved into investments, insurance, and loans, with Gesa emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing debt.
The VHS managing director, Dr. Katharina Rogge-Balke, supports the initiative, citing the need for financial education, particularly regarding private liability insurance. The program is financially backed by the two savings bank foundations in Soltau and Walsrode. It aligns with the wishes of 76% of young people who want economics to be given higher priority in schools. Over half of respondents in a YouGov study even suggested making manners, career orientation, and economics compulsory subjects.
The 'financial driver's license' workshop addresses a crucial gap in school education, empowering students with essential financial knowledge. With its comprehensive curriculum and strong backing, it's poised to make a significant impact on the financial literacy of young people in the Heidekreis region.
