Media Release
Belagavi, Oct 7: Financial literacy is not merely about earning money, but about learning how to save, invest and make money work wisely—this was the key message at a financial literacy seminar organised by St Paul’s High School, Belagavi, for students and parents.
Dr Celso Fernandez, renowned dental surgeon, author, financial educator and social entrepreneur, was the resource person. Through simple illustrations, practical examples and an engaging interactive session, Dr Fernandez explained the fundamentals of saving, investing and prudent money management. He highlighted the importance of moving beyond simply earning a salary and learning how entrepreneurship and wise investments can help create long-term financial security and wealth.
The session also encouraged students to develop the habit of saving and investing from a young age. Dr Fernandez explained that even small and regular investments made early can grow over time and give young people greater financial independence. With proper financial planning, children can gradually build funds that could one day help them pay for their own educational expenses, pursue specialised courses they are passionate about, develop a skill, or follow an area of interest without depending entirely on their parents.
Emphasising the importance of empowering women financially, Dr Fernandez said that mothers have a crucial role in developing healthy financial habits among children. Early conversations about saving, spending, investing and responsible money management can help young people grow into financially confident and responsible adults.
A special feature of the seminar was the introduction of FLAP Shakti, a free financial literacy programme designed especially for women and mothers. Participants can register using a QR code and access a series of short, easy-to-understand educational videos. After each session, participants answer a few questions before proceeding to the next module. Those who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate and a gift at a felicitation programme to be held in Goa on October 24. Free transportation from Belagavi to Goa will also be arranged for participating mothers.
The seminar brought together PTA members of St Paul’s High School and St Paul’s Jesuit School, parent volunteers and students of St Paul’s PU College.
The interactive session proved informative, practical and enjoyable, reinforcing the message that financial literacy is an essential life skill. It encouraged parents to begin financial conversations with their children early and inspired young people to see saving and investing not simply as a means of accumulating money, but as a pathway towards greater independence, responsible choices and the freedom to pursue their dreams.