Three Digital Financial Literacy (DFL) training sessions were successfully implemented in Kadhurkhil union of Boalkhali upazila, Haidgaon union of Patiya upazila, and Chikondandi union of Hathhazari upazila under SHAFAL Project at Chattogram district. A total of 60 participants, including 56 females and 4 males, attended the sessions. The participants consisted of left-behind family members (LBFMs) and returnee migrants.
Although most participants completed the full training, one participant, Ms. Keya Shil, a left-behind family member from Chikondandi union, could not complete the course due to family-related issues.
The training covered key sessions on Financial Dreams and Planning, Budgeting and Money Management, Savings, Digital Transactions, Loan Management, and Closing with Action Plan Preparation. Each participant set three personal dreams—short-term, mid-term, and long-term—for improving their livelihoods. They were guided to align these dreams with savings practices, enabling them to plan ahead in a structured manner.
Participants learned the importance of family budgeting and received hands-on guidance in preparing practical family budgets. Most of them are now applying these skills to manage household income more effectively, particularly remittances. The training also introduced participants to digital financial services, including the use of bKash, Nagad, Rocket, and other mobile banking applications. Hands-on practice sessions significantly boosted their confidence in conducting digital transactions. Additionally, participants acquired knowledge about loan management and learned how to calculate interest rates when borrowing.
Despite some disruptions at the field level due to ongoing political instability, the sessions were conducted successfully. The impact of the training extended beyond the selected participants, as local community members especially women were also encouraged and inspired by the knowledge shared.
Overall, the training empowered participants to adopt better financial habits, strengthen their savings culture, and make informed financial decisions. The integration of financial planning, budgeting, and digital literacy has begun to create positive changes not only for the participants but also within their wider communities.
