The Central Bank of Belize has taken a significant step toward enhancing financial literacy among primary school students by launching the ‘Understanding Financial Institutions and Transactions’ eBook. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, aims to integrate financial education into the primary school curriculum across Belize. The eBook, unveiled in Belize City, is designed to make financial concepts accessible and engaging for young learners, particularly those in Standard Two and Standard Three. It features interactive activities that teach practical lessons on budgeting, the role of financial institutions, and essential financial terminology. During a live demonstration, students participated in exercises such as unscrambling words like ‘profit’ and ‘savings,’ showcasing the hands-on approach of the program. Kaylee Balan, a student at St. Martin De Porres Primary School, shared her understanding of budgeting, emphasizing its importance in managing personal finances. Teachers like Ashlee Rodriquez have been trained to implement the eBook’s lessons, equipping students with skills to navigate financial challenges as they grow older. The Central Bank’s efforts build on its 2019 Financial Inclusion Strategy, which initially reached 70% of primary students. With the eBook’s rollout, the bank aims to achieve 100% coverage, ensuring every child in Belize gains a solid financial foundation.
