Money Matters Workshop: Enhancing Financial Literacy at Jigyasa University

Financial literacy is a crucial skill that equips individuals to make informed decisions about their money, investments, and overall financial well-being. Recognizing this, the School of Business Studies at Jigyasa University, Dehradun, recently organized a comprehensive workshop titled "Money Matters." This workshop was designed to enhance financial awareness among management students and faculty, providing them with valuable insights into various aspects of financial management. By focusing on budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management, the event aimed to help participants take control of their financial futures and develop essential money management skills.

• Event Overview
  The "Money Matters" workshop offered a unique opportunity for students and faculty members of Jigyasa University to learn about the complexities of personal and business finance. Held at the university's beautiful campus in Dehradun, the event was designed to make financial concepts accessible and relatable. The interactive nature of the sessions allowed participants to engage directly with financial experts, ask questions, and discuss real-life financial scenarios.

The workshop covered a range of topics, including:

• Budgeting: How to track income and expenses to achieve financial goals.
• Saving and Investing: Insights into different investment options, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, and strategies for building wealth over time.
• Debt Management: Understanding how to manage debt responsibly and reduce financial burdens.
• Financial Products: Exploring various financial products such as insurance, loans, retirement accounts, and how to select them based on individual needs.

Participants were also introduced to various financial tools that could help them make better decisions in their personal and professional lives.

• The Importance of Financial Literacy
  Financial literacy is no longer an optional skill in today’s fast-paced world. The ability to manage one’s finances effectively is essential for financial stability and growth. This is particularly true for students who are about to enter the workforce and need to manage their personal finances or make decisions about starting businesses.

The "Money Matters" workshop provided participants with a solid foundation in understanding basic financial concepts. From managing everyday expenses to making long-term financial plans, the workshop ensured that participants left with practical knowledge they could apply immediately. In addition, by becoming aware of various financial products, participants gained the tools to make smarter financial decisions and protect their financial futures.

• Interactive Learning and Real-World Application
  The event incorporated interactive activities, such as games and practical exercises, which made complex financial concepts easy to understand and fun to learn. These activities not only helped participants grasp the core ideas but also allowed them to test their knowledge and skills in real-life scenarios. The hands-on nature of the workshop encouraged participants to actively engage, ask questions, and collaborate with others.

Such engagement is crucial, especially when discussing topics like budgeting and debt management, which often seem intimidating to many. By simulating real-world financial challenges, participants gained confidence in handling their personal finances and learned how to make informed decisions that align with their financial goals.

• Key Takeaways from the Workshop
  Some of the key takeaways from the workshop include:

1. Understanding Basic Financial Concepts: Participants gained a thorough understanding of core financial principles such as budgeting, saving, and investing.
2. Informed Decision-Making: The workshop helped participants identify the best financial products suited to their needs, whether it be insurance, loans, or retirement accounts.
3. Practical Financial Tools: Participants were introduced to various tools that could aid in tracking expenses, creating savings plans, and investing wisely.
4. Confidence in Financial Planning: By participating in the interactive sessions, attendees became more confident in managing their finances and making informed decisions.

Participants:

• Total Attendees: 32
• Male Participants: 14
• Female Participants: 18

Conclusion:
The "Money Matters" workshop at Jigyasa University was a resounding success, empowering students and faculty alike with the essential financial knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of personal and business finance. By focusing on financial literacy, the workshop helped participants understand key concepts such as budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management, ensuring they are well-prepared to manage their finances effectively in both their personal and professional lives.

As financial literacy becomes increasingly important in today’s world, events like these serve as vital platforms for equipping individuals with the skills they need to succeed. The knowledge and insights gained from this workshop will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the financial futures of all participants.

Dr. Vivek Devvrat Singh -Associate Dean of SBS

Mr. Yogesh Nanda