Knowledge Fund Establishment and National Bonds, the specialist UAE savings and investment company, has announced the launch of ‘The Young Investor’, the Middle East’s first-ever financial education program to foster financial knowledge at an early age.

This visionary initiative harmoniously aligns with Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and Dubai Social Agenda 33, both of which were announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. These agendas aim to position Dubai as a pioneering hub for education and enriching educational systems that meet Dubai’s future aspirations and fortifying its human capital through top-tier  education.

Phase one of “The Young Investor” will be implemented in the three branches of “Dubai Schools”, hence implementing a comprehensive financial literacy program into their educational programs. Knowledge Fund Establishment along with National Bonds will work on the program development, design, and execution.

The educational program pilots with children in grades 5 and 6, representing a pioneering effort to foster financial knowledge at an early age. This strategic initiative comes in alignment with the broader national financial literacy initiatives and highlights the commitment of the Knowledge Fund Establishment and National Bonds in cultivating financially literate and responsible communities from childhood onward.

Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, Chief Executive Officer of the Knowledge Fund Establishment, said: “I am thrilled to announce the launch of our groundbreaking financial literacy program for young people. We are delighted to be working with National Bonds in the development of the program and supporting the piloting & implementation of the broader program across Dubai Schools. At the heart of this initiative lies a firm belief in the transformative power of knowledge and education. By investing in equipping our youth with essential financial skills, we are laying the foundation for their future success.

Al Awar added: “We are not merely empowering young minds  with the essential knowledge to make informed decisions about their financial futures; we are also establishing the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient economy. By enabling Dubai’s young minds to master the principles of saving, budgeting, and investing, we are setting them up as catalysts for economic growth, innovation, entrepreneurship, and prosperity.

Mohammed Qasim Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer at National Bonds, said: “The Young Investor, heralds a new era in financial education program aimed at school children. By imparting financial knowledge, we empower students to navigate financial complexities and cultivate sound money management habits, laying the foundation for a financially educated society.”

The program comprises six modules aimed at equipping students with a strong understanding of financial fundamentals. The first module emphasizes the importance of money management. Subsequent modules cover payment methods, loans and debts, savings and investments, insurance protection plans (with a focus on Takaful) and conclude with comprehensive financial planning in the sixth module.

By integrating interactive elements, practical exercises, and workshops into the program, students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-life scenarios. This forward-thinking approach ensures that students will not only understand financial concepts but also develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for making informed financial decisions and shaping the economic landscape of tomorrow.