As part of its broader strategy to promote financial literacy across the UAE, Sharjah Islamic Bank (SIB) recently conducted a series of educational workshops aimed at instilling saving habits and money management skills among children. Organised in collaboration with Sharjah Children, a subsidiary of Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators, the initiative attracted participation from over 260 children aged 9 to 12.
Held across 13 centres in Sharjah and surrounding areas, the workshops aimed to build early awareness of financial planning in a format that was both age-appropriate and interactive. The sessions combined storytelling, hands-on activities, and real-life simulations to help children grasp concepts such as budgeting, saving, and responsible spending.
“An investment in the future”
Hassan Al Balghouni, Head of Corporate Communications and Customer Awareness at SIB, emphasised the long-term value of starting financial education at an early age.
“Building financially aware generations is a true investment in the future of our society. These initiatives lie at the heart of our social responsibility strategy,” he said.
Al Balghouni noted that the workshops aim to foster positive financial behaviours through simplified and engaging content. “Early exposure to these ideas helps prepare future generations to make thoughtful financial decisions,” he added.
Creating lasting impact through hands-on learning
The workshops followed a structured approach, beginning with engaging storytelling that introduced fundamental financial concepts in a relatable manner. Children then took part in practical exercises, simulating real-world scenarios to reinforce the lessons. Each session concluded with a prize draw to celebrate participation and encourage enthusiasm around financial responsibility.
Noura Al Shamsi, Deputy Director of Sharjah Children, praised the collaboration with SIB, highlighting its alignment with national educational goals.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to equipping children with essential life skills,” she said. “Financial literacy is a cornerstone of personal development, and we regularly integrate such initiatives into our programs.”
Al Shamsi also underscored the importance of interactive tools tailored to children’s needs, which help ensure these financial lessons stay with them into adulthood.
Part of a broader commitment to financial education
These workshops form part of a wider outreach programme driven by SIB’s Customer Education and Awareness Unit. In recent months, the unit has rolled out several high-impact campaigns, including:
- “Zoud” lectures for government employees
- Financial freedom sessions with Badiri Academy
- Children’s summer lectures with Al Bataeh Club
- The public-facing “Hafiz Ala Feloosek” at the Dhai Festival
- A financial education radio series titled “Your Financial Advisor”
All these initiatives reflect SIB’s continuing effort to empower individuals across the UAE with practical tools for sound financial planning and to support the country’s broader vision for long-term economic sustainability.
