Rastriya Banijya Bank Program Boosts Financial Literacy
22nd March 2026, Kathmandu
The Rastriya Banijya Bank Program titled “Smart Money Talk” recently concluded at Ratna Rajyalaxmi Secondary School in New Baneshwor, Kathmandu.
Rastriya Banijya Bank Program
Organized to mark Global Money Week 2026, this initiative by Nepal’s leading public sector bank aimed to instill financial discipline and digital safety awareness among young students. As the financial landscape in Nepal shifts rapidly toward digital banking, the bank’s leadership emphasized that early education is the most effective defense against financial fraud and mismanagement.
Leadership Insights on Financial Education
The program featured direct interaction with CEO Devendra Raman Khanal, who highlighted that financial literacy should be treated as a core life skill rather than just a banking concept.
Resource Efficiency: Understanding money management allows students to maximize the utility of their limited resources, fostering a habit of saving from a young age.
School-to-Home Ripple Effect: The CEO noted that students act as catalysts for change. By educating a student, the bank effectively reaches an entire household, spreading financial awareness to parents and neighbors who may not have formal banking education.
Digital Safety and Fraud Prevention
A major focus of the Rastriya Banijya Bank Program was navigating the risks associated with modern information technology. With the rise of mobile banking in Nepal, students were urged to remain vigilant against increasingly sophisticated digital scams.
Key Safety Advice Provided:
Phishing Awareness: Be skeptical of unsolicited SMS, social media links, or WhatsApp messages promising “lottery wins” or “free grants.”
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Credential Protection: Never share OTPs (One-Time Passwords), PINs, or passwords with anyone, even those claiming to be bank staff.
The “Easy Money” Trap: Students were warned against schemes that demand a small initial “processing fee” in exchange for a large sum of money, as these are classic hallmarks of financial fraud.
Objectives of the Smart Money Talk Initiative
The Rastriya Banijya Bank Program aligns with the national goals set by Nepal Rastra Bank to increase financial inclusion. The specific objectives of this session included:
Instilling Responsible Behavior: Moving beyond theoretical knowledge to practical, daily money-saving habits.
Tech-Savvy Banking: Familiarizing the younger generation with secure digital transaction methods.
Community Empowerment: Using the school platform to build a foundation for a more financially resilient society.
Impact on Students and the Community
The interactive nature of the program allowed students to pose real-world questions regarding student accounts and digital wallets. This engagement showed that while the youth are comfortable with technology, they require professional guidance to navigate the legal and security aspects of the financial system. By bringing “Smart Money Talk” to a prominent school in New Baneshwor, Rastriya Banijya Bank has reinforced its commitment to social responsibility and the development of informed future citizens.
Conclusion
The Rastriya Banijya Bank Program at Ratna Rajyalaxmi Secondary School serves as a vital blueprint for how traditional banks can engage with the digital-native generation. Through direct mentorship from top bank officials and a focus on practical digital safety, the initiative has empowered over a hundred students with the tools needed for long-term economic stability. As Global Money Week 2026 continues, such efforts will remain crucial in building a fraud-resistant and financially literate Nepal.
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