Iscte Business School has been invited to participate in the initiative “Education for Citizenship: Saving, a Commitment to the Future”, promoted by the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MECI), in collaboration with the Bank of Portugal, the Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority (ASF) and the Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM), under the aegis of the National Council of Financial Supervisors and within the scope of the National Plan for Financial Education. 

The main goal of this initiative is to promote financial literacy among students in basic and secondary education through the organisation of classes and activities focused on topics such as saving and responsible financial management. These sessions will be led by higher education students, who, in collaboration with schools, will help foster a generation of more informed, aware and financially responsible citizens. This initiative, along with the involvement of the students, reflects and contributes to the mission of Iscte Business School to co-create societal impact in an ethical, responsible, and sustainable manner. 

Although designed as a long-term project, the initiative is set to begin on 31 October, coinciding with World Savings Day, with the launch of a National Financial Literacy Class dedicated to the theme “Saving, a Commitment to the Future”. On this day, alongside the students, faculty members from Iscte Business School will also share their knowledge and expertise with secondary school students. 

Basic and secondary schools have been encouraged to contact higher education institutions (HEIs) in their region. However, Iscte Business School and its students have also adopted a proactive approach, reaching out directly to schools with which they wish to collaborate. This opportunity is particularly meaningful for alumni who wish to return to their former schools, sharing their experiences and contributing to the promotion of financial education. 

The contact person for this initiative at Iscte Business School is Professor Ana Simaens, Associate Dean for Engagement & Impact, who is responsible for coordinating the collaboration between schools and higher education students. 

The training of participating students will be supported by educational materials developed by the supervisory authorities, including an introductory video lecture and presentation materials. 

Students interested in taking part are invited to complete the registration form available here. 

Those who have already registered have expressed great enthusiasm and a strong sense of purpose, viewing this initiative as a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the financial education of younger generations. Many also highlight the rewarding experience of returning to their former schools as university students, sharing the knowledge and insights acquired throughout their academic journey. 

For more information, please contact: sustainability.ibs@iscte-iul.pt