No fewer than 130 pupils and students benefitted from the just-concluded Next Generation Financial Markets Empowerment organised by FMDQ Group Plc. in Lagos.
The 2023 Summer Camp Programme held at the Exchange Place, FMDQ premises in Lagos.
At the grand finale of event on Wednesday, Ms. Kaodi Ugoji, FMDQ Group Chief Operating Officer, described the programme as a huge success.
The FMDQ Next Generation Financial Markets Empowerment Programme, a learning and development initiative, was aimed at promoting financial market awareness and literacy among students across all levels.
It involves pupils of ages eight to 10, secondary school students of ages 11 to 16 and students in tertiary institutions, as well as fresh graduates.
The 2023 edition, which is the fourth, had streams one and two and held from Aug. 2 to Aug. 25.
Ugoji said that the programme was organised to equip the participants with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities and intricacies of financial markets.
According to her, the aim of enhancing the participants’ understanding of savings and investment in financial markets was achieved.
“This programme has provided them an opportunity to learn about the various investment vehicles and the roles of the different financial market participants, through educational and interactive exercises and activities.
“We are extremely delighted at the knowledge, enthusiasm and dedication shown by participants throughout the 2023 Summer Camp Programme.
“It has indeed been a remarkable journey of learning, growth and creating lasting memories by combining theoretical learning with practical experiences,” she said.
The Chief Operating Officer said that the programme created a platform for the organisation to execute part of its commitment to foster financial literacy in the younger generation.
Ugoji said that secondary school students who participated were immersed in currency trading knowledge within a simulated environment in FMDQ Q-Hub, a trading simulation room.
“This cutting-edge platform, powered by the FMDQ-Next bespoke trading system, empowered participants to gain practical experience in trading, identifying potential risks and effectively managing virtual portfolios with the ultimate goal of making profits.
“FMDQ-Next initiative is an expression of FMDQ Group’s ongoing commitment to continually implement innovative initiatives that ensure a sustainable financial future for the next generation,” she said.
It was reported that the participants also had opportunities to showcase their talents in drama, singing, dancing and playing of musical instruments.
The top three finalists from secondary schools were honoured with laptops and tablets as well as future internship positions at FMDQ Group.
The top three finalists from each stream of the primary school category were also given prizes.
Mrs Amanda Okafor, who brought her three children from the U.S. specifically for this programme, said, “I appreciate the programme’s focus, which is educating the younger generation about financial markets in an exciting way.
“It was truly enriching and memorable for my children. I was particularly impressed by the well-thought-out schedule that balanced financial markets education with recreation and personal growth.
“Seeing my children return home each day with a sense of confidence and excitement to share their experiences was incredibly rewarding.”
Master Nestor Odionyenma, a participant from Ray Jacobs Boarding School, Imo State, said, “The variety of learning activities offered during the programme was very impressive.
“I learnt about financial market instruments such as commodities, equities, treasury bills and derivatives, among others.
“I also learnt about the importance of savings and long-term benefits of investing.
“I made new friends from different backgrounds and age groups; together, we shared laughter and experiences that I will cherish forever.
“I sincerely appreciate FMDQ Group for creating such an engaging and enriching programme.”