National Bonds Expands Young Investor Programme To Engage 75,000 Students Across 50 UAE Schools

National Bonds, a prominent Sharia-compliant savings and investment firm in the UAE, has partnered with Knowledge Fund Establishment to expand its "Young Investor Programme" across 50 schools nationwide over the next three years. This initiative aims to engage 75,000 students, building on the success of its pilot phase in 11 Dubai schools, which combined theoretical and practical financial education.

Participants in the programme will be encouraged to develop small investment or business projects based on financial principles they learn. These projects will range from basic savings strategies to safe investment tools. Feasibility assessments will be conducted for selected projects, with the most promising ones receiving support and recognition. This approach aims to provide students with real-world experience while enhancing their entrepreneurial and practical skills.

The Young Investor programme was launched early last year to introduce students, especially those in Grades 5 and 6, to essential financial concepts. These include money management, payment systems, loans and debts, savings, investments, Islamic Takaful insurance, and long-term financial planning. The curriculum is structured and research-backed to promote a savings mindset while preparing youth to navigate financial systems confidently.

High school students recently participated in immersive workshops at National Bonds’ headquarters. These sessions covered various real-world topics such as budgeting, customer service, investment fundamentals, market research, data analysis, and client communication. A new group of Grade 11 and 12 students is expected to join during the upcoming summer break.

The programme is being updated to include contemporary topics like artificial intelligence, digital currencies, and everyday money management. These additions aim to equip students with skills relevant to future financial and professional challenges. By aligning with global trends, the initiative ensures that participants are well-prepared for the evolving landscape.

Rehab Lootah, Group Deputy CEO of National Bonds, stated: "The outcomes from the pilot phase of the Young Investor Programme have exceeded expectations. The high levels of engagement from students, families, and schools demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in building financial literacy and confidence. As we expand nationwide, we look forward to further empowering young people to make informed financial decisions that will shape their future."

Collaboration for Future Success

Ohood Al Ichlah from Knowledge Fund Establishment expressed pride in continuing collaboration with National Bonds: "We are proud to continue our collaboration with National Bonds to extend the reach of this valuable programme. Financial literacy is a cornerstone of future success, and the Young Investor initiative lays that foundation early. We look forward to welcoming more schools and inspiring more students to take charge of their financial futures."

This initiative's expansion reflects its success in engaging students through practical applications of financial knowledge. By fostering an understanding of finance from an early age, it aims to empower young individuals with skills necessary for future success.

With inputs from WAM