Kolkata: In a move aimed at giving students a base in financial literacy, the school education department has asked schools to introduce financial literacy activities for classes 6-10 during the last period on Saturdays.Paschim Banga Samagra Shiksha Mission, in a recent memo, has directed district education officers to circulate RBI’s financial education modules among all upper-primary, secondary and higher-secondary schools under their jurisdiction. The move follows an initiative by CBSE in 2022, which introduced financial literacy in its curriculum. The same module is being circulated for state schools.“Enhancing financial awareness as a 21st-century skill improves students’ proficiency in foundational mathematics and the practical application of knowledge in everyday financial situations,” an official said.Schools have been asked to use the material as additional, non-evaluative reading content, rather than as part of the formal assessment system. The department has suggested conducting activities based on the modules through quiz sessions and discussions.The last period on Saturdays coincides with Ananda Parishar, when activities like drawing, painting, singing and drama are held. “We feel financial decisions are increasingly beginning at a young age, with children exposed to digital payments, online purchases, banking services, and advertising long before they enter the workforce,” the official added.The study material covers a wide range of topics — from the barter system and its evolution to digital payment systems. Schools have received lesson plans and teachers’ handbooks originally prepared for CBSE schools.Sanjay Barua, headmaster of Narain Dass Bangur Memorial Multipurpose School, said, “As soon as we received the notice a few days ago, we lost no time in introducing the new module on Saturday. However, conducting these classes every week with existing teachers will be difficult.” Raja Dey, headmaster of Bhawanipur Mitra Institution, said, ‘This is an age-appropriate move by the state.”
