CBSE to now include investment education in its curriculum

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) plans to introduce investment education in its curriculum to develop financial acumen of its students. The board and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) plan to include subjects such as stock markets and investment of surplus money as part of the syllabus.

Sebi has discussed its plan with the ministry of human resources development. "The talks are in the initial stages. Once the curriculum is prepared, it will be implemented for senior secondary students (Std XI and XII) from the commerce stream," said a senior official from the board.

At present, CBSE students from the commerce stream are studying business studies, marketing and other such concepts.

School principals believe introducing students to the nuances of the stock market and investment of surplus money will improve their financial knowledge.

"It can change their outlook. Teaching students about investments and share markets is important as they earn hefty pay packets at a young age nowadays. This will improve their understanding of financial matters and also encourage them to pursue a career in related fields," said Deepshika Srivastava, principal of Andheri's Rajhans Vidyalaya.

Students, too, are excited about the proposed new subjects. "As a commerce student, I do not mind studying them. It will help me get a detailed picture of stocks and securities. There are a plethora of career opportunities in the investment sector today as well," said Pratik Ganguly, a CBSE student from Kharghar.

CBSE student from South Mumbai's Kendriya Vidyalaya Aditya Shirodkar agrees. "I am extremely interested in learning about the stock trade. The board must offer a special certificate for taking up the course," said Shirodkar who will appear for his Std X exams next year.