On 27 July 2024, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Community Engagement Unit, in collaboration with the UJ Department of Finance and Investment Management, KE ZAKA, and SABC Education, hosted a significant Financial Literacy for Communities workshop at the Soweto Campus. Launched in 2023, this project aims to equip communities with essential financial knowledge and skills, enabling them to make informed financial decisions.
The UJ Community Engagement (CE) Unit is central to the university’s mission to foster meaningful and sustainable partnerships between the university and its surrounding communities. Through various initiatives, UJ CE works to address societal challenges, enhance educational opportunities, and promote socio-economic development. This financial literacy project is one of many efforts designed to empower community members by providing practical tools and knowledge.
The workshop marked the beginning of a series of modularised sessions specifically designed for members of community-based financial savings schemes, including stokvels, burial societies, and investment groups. This first session focused on critical areas such as budgeting, debt management, saving and investing, and the importance of having a Will.
Participants from various community savings schemes, including Kopano Ke Matla, Agisanang Society, and Success Investments, actively engaged in the interactive sessions. They received expert guidance from UJ lecturers who are Certified Financial Planners. The workshop’s impact was immediately evident, with attendees expressing high praise for the valuable financial insights provided.
One participant shared, “I learned how to manage money, save, and invest across different platforms. The discipline I gained will help me register with proper legal perspective. I will also discuss the importance of a Will with my family.”
Ms Thoko Ndlovu of Ipolokeng Burial Society added, “When I came to the event, I expected to learn about money, but I gained so much more. The topics were relevant, easily explained, and incredibly insightful.”
UJ’s Financial Literacy for Communities project continues to resonate with participants, who eagerly anticipate the upcoming Level 2 and 3 sessions. This initiative reflects UJ’s commitment to community empowerment through education, providing the tools necessary for financial stability and growth.
