For students who are about to graduate, preparing for the world of work is not only about developing the skills needed for a job. Understanding how to manage money and make financial decisions is also an important part of building financial independence.
Through Smart Money for Students: Financial Literacy for Work-readiness, YCAB Foundation, in partnership with VT Markets, held a financial literacy session for more than 120 students at SMK Tri Arga 2, Jakarta, on 28 July 2026.
During the session, students were introduced to various topics relevant to their everyday lives, from budgeting and saving, to financial decision-making, risk management, investing, and ways to generate income.
The topics were delivered through interactive activities, quizzes, and discussions, allowing students to understand how these concepts can be applied in their daily lives. This approach also encouraged students to actively participate in the learning and connect the topics with their own experiences.
For Lia, a student at SMK Tri Arga 2, the session offered a new perspective on finance while introducing her to several concepts she had not explored before.
“I learned so much today. I feel like I now have a broader perspective on finance, from how to manage and handle money to how to generate income. I also learned new terms and concepts, such as trading, investing, and many more,” said Lia.
The students’ enthusiasm was also evident in their active participation throughout the session. Yoga, the trainer for the session, noted that the financial literacy topics were highly relevant to the students, especially those who are preparing to graduate.
“Financial literacy is very important for students, especially those who are graduating this year. The students were also very engaged throughout the session, probably because they could relate the topics to their daily lives. Learning about investing can also be a valuable skill for those who are about to graduate and start adapting to today’s digital world,” said Yoga.
For students preparing to graduate and enter the workforce, understanding finance can help them navigate the financial decisions they will encounter in their daily lives. Learning how to manage money, understand risks, and explore different ways to manage and grow their finances is part of that process.
With the knowledge they gained, it is hoped that students will begin building healthier financial habits and feel more prepared to make financial decisions as they take their next steps into the world of work.