Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at equipping students with essential life skills, the Odisha government has decided to introduce financial literacy for students of Classes VI to X in PM SHRI (Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India) schools across the state.
The initiative was formalised on Monday with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE) and the Panchasakha Shikhya Setu Sangathan (PSS Sangathan). Officials said the programme will be implemented in 736 schools covering all 30 districts, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The MoU was signed in the presence of School and Mass Education Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Dr N Thirumala Naik, OSEPA State Project Director Ananya Das, and NCFE Director and CEO Alok Chandra Jena.
Under the programme, students will be introduced to key financial concepts such as savings, budgeting, banking, investment, taxation and responsible financial behaviour. The initiative aims to build financial awareness at an early stage and strengthen students’ decision-making abilities.
Officials said the programme is also expected to enhance entrepreneurial skills among students and prepare them for real-world financial responsibilities. “The objective is to create financially aware and responsible citizens,” an official said.
Prior to the rollout, teachers will undergo specialised training in financial literacy to ensure effective classroom delivery. Selected institutions will also be recognised as “Money Smart Schools” under NCFE.
The initiative is being seen as a significant step towards integrating practical knowledge into the school curriculum and strengthening skill-based education in the state.
PSS Sangathan Chief Operating Officer Raj Laxmi Dash was also present at the MoU signing ceremony.
