On August 21, 2024, the NSS Unit of ICNU in collaboration with the Department of Youth Affairs, Government of India, organized a Financial Literacy Workshop at NIM Auditorium. The workshop aimed to enhance the financial awareness of students, empowering them with essential knowledge about managing personal finances, savings, investments, and protecting themselves from financial fraud. The initiative was part of a broader effort to foster financial inclusion and educate young people on the importance of sound financial decision-making.
The event commenced with an opening remark by Dr. Udai Paliwal, Director of the Institute of Commerce. Dr. Paliwal emphasised the importance of financial literacy in today’s world and how it serves as a foundation for personal and professional growth. Dr. Pranav Saraswat, the NSS Program Officer, then delivered a welcome address and provided a detailed briefing on the purpose and structure of the workshop, stressing the need for students to actively engage with the subject matter.
The workshop’s sessions were led by Ms. Harsha Sharma, a certified financial literacy trainer with years of experience in the field. Ms. Sharma covered a wide range of topics, starting with the importance of savings and the benefits of debit cards, followed by an introduction to various government schemes designed to promote financial well-being, such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana and Atal Pension Yojana. A significant portion of her session was dedicated to fraud prevention, teaching students how to recognize and protect themselves from financial scams, particularly in the digital age.
In addition to Ms. Sharma’s insightful presentations, Mr. Kamal Mackwan, a financial expert, shared his expertise on more advanced financial topics. He provided valuable insights into investment strategies, the importance of budgeting, and long-term financial planning. Mr. Mackwan’s session was highly interactive, as he answered questions from students and addressed real-life financial concerns, making the content highly relatable and practical.
The workshop concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where students were encouraged to ask questions about their own financial situations. The speakers provided practical advice on how to manage finances, plan for the future, and utilize financial products effectively. The participants left the workshop equipped with valuable knowledge on how to make informed financial decisions that will benefit them in the long run.
Overall, the Financial Literacy Workshop was a resounding success, providing students with the tools and confidence to navigate the complex world of personal finance. The collaboration between NSS-ICNU and the Department of Youth Affairs was a commendable effort in ensuring that the youth are better prepared to face financial challenges and secure a stable financial future.
