Dr. Tawarat explained that the collaboration between OKMD and GSB, a partner in promoting financial literacy and investment knowledge among children and youth, builds upon the success of previous initiatives, such as the Capital Market Knowledge Caravan and FinLab projects. These programs, supported by the Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF), have been conducted throughout 2024, surpassing participation targets and concluding successfully on December 19.
He highlighted the Government Savings Bank's consistent activities on Libong Island as part of its mission to promote savings and enhance financial security for the public. This aligns with OKMD's objective to establish modern public learning systems and creative knowledge dissemination platforms. Together, OKMD and GSB aim to create high-quality community learning spaces, fostering lifelong learning and reducing disparities in access to knowledge for all age groups, particularly children, youth, and community enterprises.
"OKMD has partnered with GSB to develop Libong's Learning Space, providing accessible, quality knowledge to the community. This initiative aims to cultivate a lifelong learning culture and equip individuals, especially youth and small businesses, with essential 21st-century skills. Our partnership with the Libong Subdistrict Learning Center, under the Department of Non-Formal and Informal Education, ensures comprehensive learning support for people of all ages in the area," Dr. Tawarat said.
The project focuses on three main development areas:
- Physical Space: Upgrading the learning center into a dynamic community hub under the concept of the "Libong Knowledge Hub," fostering an engaging learning environment.
- Knowledge Content: Providing suitable learning materials and tools, including books, board games, and multimedia resources tailored to the target audience.
- Learning Activities: Organizing creative workshops and programs that impart financial literacy, technological skills, and professional development to children, youth, and community entrepreneurs.
The objectives of the project are to:
- Enhance community learning spaces through the "Libong Knowledge Hub."
- Provide equitable access to essential 21st-century knowledge, particularly financial literacy, career development, and technology skills.
- Foster a lifelong learning culture, empowering the community to improve their quality of life through knowledge application and skill development.
Mr. Watcharaphan Sompong, Regional Director of GSB, emphasized the bank's role in improving the learning facilities by providing resources such as computers and digital tools. These efforts aim to enhance the technological capabilities and learning experiences of all age groups, paving the way for better livelihoods and professional growth.
Ms. Tiwawan Pitakjinda, Director of the Kantang District Learning Promotion Center, mentioned that the Libong Subdistrict Learning Center currently serves 61 students through its non-formal education programs.
The event featured various engaging activities, such as CPR Training through Game-Based Learning by Walailak University, workshops on photography and online marketing, and "Peer Teaching" sessions by students from NIST International School. The "BudgetBuddy" club introduced financial literacy concepts, distinguishing between needs and wants, and encouraged goal setting and financial planning among high school students from local schools.
For primary school students, the "Big Brother, Little Brother" program introduced basic financial literacy, focusing on saving and setting life goals. The activities also included fun English language lessons, encouraging students to practice communication skills relevant to their future opportunities, especially in a community frequented by international tourists.
"This event demonstrated the power of networks and the potential of youth, small businesses, and the local community. By providing equitable access to relevant knowledge, we aim to reduce disparities, improve financial and professional skills, and foster a lifelong learning culture to enhance the quality of life for the people of Libong Island," Dr. Tawarat concluded.
Source: NXPO
