The idea of teaching financial education in school has sparked many debates on whether it is appropriate to add it as a core subject. As a student myself, I firmly believe that teaching students how to be financially aware is not only appropriate, but it is necessary to raise a generation of independent and conscious individuals.
From my experience, I have never been educated on anything regarding finances and how to be responsible with money. Of course my parents taught me how to save money and to spend it, but for instance, I did not have the slightest idea of what the differences between a credit card and a debit card were. I was forced to learn when I got my first job. I went to the bank with my mom and the manager tried to explain the basics of finance using very fancy terms that were very hard to grasp. I still have to ask my parents for help and everytime I do, I wish someone had taught me this in school.
I know of many high schools in my city focus more on subjects regarding economy and finance, but I attended a school that enhanced the study of the humanities, such as foreign languages and cultures, rather than money. Also, I am well aware that schools may not have the funds or resources to invest in this programme. Nevertheless, I think that students would benefit from at least an hour per week of such education as it could offer them the adequate support to become financially independent and financially responsible citizens.