Financial Literacy for Children: A Saving for The Future
Members of the Child Forum in a sub-district in Simokerto, East Java, are now actively saving through the Savings for Transformation (S4T) programme, organised by Amerta Kasih (a partnership programme between FKM UNAIR and Wahana Visi Indonesia), which began in February 2024. This innovative programme not only helps them overcome the habit of struggling to save, but also strengthens the sense of togetherness among forum members.
Saving is a financial skill that is increasingly important in this modern era. With the rising cost of living and various unexpected needs that can emerge at any time, having savings is key to achieving financial stability. For the younger generation, saving early not only builds preparedness for the future but also teaches responsibility and wise financial management.
Sinta, a 14-year-old girl who serves as the Head of the Child Forum, shared her story about the significant changes felt since the S4T programme was introduced. Before the programme started, saving was a big challenge for her and her peers. "We were the type of people who found it hard to save on our own," Sinta revealed. This often made it difficult for them when faced with urgent needs.
In February 2024, Sinta, along with her peer, Nova, had the opportunity to attend an S4T socialisation session. During the session, they were introduced to the importance of saving in a planned and patient manner, considering that the S4T programme is designed for a 12-month savings period. Subsequently, the Child Forum began implementing the ASKA programme.
Unlike the usual ASKA system, which includes a borrowing and lending mechanism, the forum mentors adapted the programme to focus solely on saving activities. This aims to build positive habits among forum members without the pressure of debt.
According to Sinta, the programme has brought many benefits, both personally and collectively. Besides helping her save consistently, ASKA has also become a platform for gathering and sharing experiences with other members. "Before ASKA, our routine meetings were often characterised by unreasonable excuses. But since ASKA, participation has increased because members don't want to lose out if they don't participate in saving that month," explained the student, who is currently in junior high school.
Positive changes are also evident in the increased solidarity among forum members. They support each other in maintaining saving consistency and share inspiring stories to motivate one another. This habit is slowly becoming a new culture that strengthens relationships between members.
Sinta hopes that the S4T programme can be implemented in other child forums in various sub-districts. "Hopefully every child can have savings through this S4T activity," she said. She also feels proud of the programme's success and is optimistic that February 2025, when their first savings are disbursed, will be an unforgettable and valuable moment.
The ASKA programme, initiated by Wahana Visi Indonesia (WVI), has provided significant support for the successful management of this programme. "Save your money, to achieve your desires. This programme is expected to encourage children to be more financially independent and skilled in managing finances," she stated.
Author: Rania Ichwana Wicaksono (Field Facilitator Operating Model AP Simokerto)
Editor: Mariana Kurniawati (Communication Executive)
