This week is all about money matters for MBO (Secondary Vocational Education) students in Groningen! As part of the national “Week van het geld” (Money Week) initiative, a large event is taking place today, March 11th, at the Euroborg convention center. The annual event, dedicated to promoting financial literacy and awareness, is hosted by the Groningen Municipality.
Personal finance and more
This year’s theme is “Hoe ben jij je geld de baas?” (“How do you boss your money around?”). The aim is to equip MBO students with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage their finances effectively. Many young adults are unaware of the financial opportunities available to them, such as student grants and tax benefits. The workshops and information booths at the event will guide them through these options and provide tips on responsible spending and saving habits.
The event also addresses potential financial pitfalls that young adults often face. Research shows that a significant number of MBO students miss out on claiming their rightful benefits like zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) or fail to file tax returns, potentially losing over €1,000 annually. Additionally, social media can create unrealistic expectations about how quickly wealth can be accumulated, potentially leading students into debt through impulsive spending.
Building a brighter financial future
The municipality hopes that by participating in “Week van het geld” activities, MBO students in Groningen will gain valuable knowledge and skills that will empower them to make informed financial decisions, avoid debt traps, and leverage available resources. The initiative highlights the importance of financial literacy for young adults.
