The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina (CBBiH) and the Institute for Youth Development KULT, with the support of the Embassy of Sweden in BiH, presented the findings of a study on the financial literacy of young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The event brought together young participants, institutional representatives, academics, and civil society organizations to discuss practical support models and structured, lasting solutions for improving financial education for youth.
In her opening remarks, Jasmina Selimović, Governor of the Central Bank of BiH, noted that the financial literacy level of young people in BiH falls below the minimum target level defined by international standards. The findings, she said, underscore the need for additional education on core economic principles and highlight the importance of prioritizing financial literacy.
She also announced the intention to establish a Financial Literacy Committee within the Central Bank, bringing together all relevant stakeholders who can help guide efforts to integrate financial literacy into the formal education system. Addressing young people directly, she emphasized that knowledge is an investment that never loses value.
Ajka Rovčanin, Executive Director of the Institute for Youth Development KULT, stressed that the study aimed to highlight the need for a structured approach to youth financial education through concrete recommendations and implementable models.
“Our research clearly shows that financial literacy is not just an economic issue, but a life skill. Young people want to understand how to plan, save, and invest, but they need opportunities to learn these skills through real experience. That’s why we advocate for practical education and partnership-based programs that make this possible,” said Rovčanin, adding that the Institute has been working for over two decades to develop and improve policy solutions for young people.
Birgitta Jansson, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Sweden in BiH, said that financial literacy goes beyond understanding numbers and managing budgets, and involves making sound financial decisions. Ensuring that young people have access to accurate and relevant information, she added, is crucial for enabling them to make informed choices and shape their own future.
“We have supported youth-focused initiatives in BiH for many years. We’re pleased to support partners who create opportunities for real change. Today, young people were given the chance to be the ones creating solutions, not just observers or policy beneficiaries,” said Jansson.
The findings of the analysis were presented by Aziz Đipa, Head of the Monitoring, Evaluation and Research Department at the Institute, who explained that while young people in BiH are aware of everyday financial decisions, they struggle with more complex topics such as investments, risk diversification, and long-term savings planning.
“What’s encouraging is that young people want to learn. However, the data show that they need more support through structured educational programs, mentoring, and tools that connect them with financial institutions. We need programs that bridge theory and practice through interactive workshops and simulations. Only then can their knowledge become a practical skill that genuinely improves their everyday lives,” Đipa said.
Adnan Bahtić of the Central Bank of BiH emphasized that the purpose of the event was to give young people the space to articulate their needs and expectations to decision-makers in the field of financial literacy. He added that the Central Bank is leading an important initiative to integrate financial literacy into the education system in BiH.
This joint event is part of ongoing efforts to promote financial literacy and ensure that young people in BiH acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for responsible and independent financial decision-making.
