On Aconcagua Radio: Free financial education training for young people

From using virtual wallets to life plan planning, Junior Achievement's financial education courses prepare young people to face current and future economic challenges. " Financial education is a very valuable tool for improving financial health ," explained María Laura Hunau, director of Junior Achievement Cuyo, onAconcagua Radio .

The organization, which has been present in more than 100 countries and in Argentina for 30 years, offers free, virtual, age-appropriate training programs. In 2023, nearly 8,000 young people in Cuyo chose to participate.

The programs— Personal Economy and Personal Finance —are designed for young people ages 16 to 25, but there are also options for students as young as 11. “ Our program begins in fourth and fifth grade with a program called Cuentas con Vos, as an introduction to the world of finance ,” Hunau said.

Registration is open and can be completed online at www.junior.org.ar or through Instagram (@juniorarg). Courses can be taken from anywhere in the province with internet access and a cell phone, tablet, or computer.

“ Today, nearly 90% of young people who manage money do so through digital wallets ,” Hunau noted. This trend has grown exponentially in recent years: “ In 2022, it was 5 out of 10, and in 2024, it will be 9 out of 10. ”

One of the pillars of the proposal is teacher training . “ First, we train teachers, and that training is graded. Then, they bring the content to the classroom using our tools ,” the director explained.

The demand for these courses comes from young people themselves. According to research conducted jointly with Di Tella University and BBVA, 8 out of 10 adolescents believe that financial education should be a required subject in school . However, only 49% successfully save, despite the fact that 80% actually try.

“ The kids understand that they need to learn how to manage their income, make informed decisions, and plan for their future. And that's exactly what we're trying to foster with these courses ,” Hunau said.

In a fluctuating economic climate like Argentina's, the foundation believes that financial education for young people is key to their independence and well-being . " We don't provide technical details, but rather skills and tools to overcome economic adversity ," it clarified.

In addition, Junior Achievement actively works on social media to counter misleading messages about “becoming a millionaire by 20.” “ We address the myths, challenges, and false promises of financial influencers. It's important to show more realistic education ,” she added.

Finally, Hunau celebrated the massive participation of young people from Mendoza: “ Our graduation rate is extremely high. We make sure that everyone who starts the course completes it and receives their certificate .”

The proposal remains open and represents a concrete opportunity for more young people to access key knowledge for their present and economic future.

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