The recent culmination of the Next Generation Financial Markets Empowerment by FMDQ Group Plc. in Lagos saw no fewer than 130 pupils and students reap the benefits of this enriching initiative. The 2023 Summer Camp Programme took place at the FMDQ premises at Exchange Place in Lagos, offering a unique platform for learning and growth.
During the grand finale of the event on Wednesday, Ms. Kaodi Ugoji, Chief Operating Officer of FMDQ Group, lauded the programme’s resounding success. The FMDQ Next Generation Financial Markets Empowerment Programme, designed as a comprehensive learning and development endeavour, aimed to elevate financial market awareness and literacy among students across all educational levels.
The programme catered to a diverse range of participants, spanning pupils aged eight to ten, secondary school students aged eleven to sixteen, tertiary institution students, and recent graduates. The fourth edition of the programme, held in 2023, featured two streams and spanned from August 2nd to August 25th.
Ugoji expounded on the programme’s mission, detailing its purpose in equipping participants with the knowledge and skills essential to navigate the intricate terrain of financial markets. The overarching goal of fostering participants’ understanding of savings and investment within financial markets was undeniably achieved.
“The programme presented an avenue for them to explore diverse investment avenues and grasp the roles of distinct financial market participants through educational and interactive exercises,” Ugoji explained. She also expressed her delight in the enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by participants throughout the Summer Camp programme.
Ugoji highlighted how the programme effectively combined theoretical education with practical experiences, fostering a journey of learning and growth. Beyond individual progress, the programme underscored FMDQ Group’s commitment to promoting financial literacy among the younger generation.
For secondary school students, a novel element emerged in the form of currency trading knowledge within a simulated environment called FMDQ Q-Hub, a trading simulation room. The FMDQ-Next bespoke trading system powered this cutting-edge platform, providing participants with a hands-on understanding of trading dynamics, risk assessment, and portfolio management for profit generation.
Ugoji underscored that the FMDQ-Next initiative exemplified the group’s commitment to introducing innovative platforms that pave the way for a sustainable financial future for the next generation.
The programme embraced a holistic approach, extending opportunities for participants to showcase their talents in drama, singing, dancing, and musical instruments. Distinguished performers from secondary schools were honoured with laptops, tablets, and future internship positions at FMDQ Group. Additionally, the top three finalists from each stream in the primary school category were acknowledged with prizes.
Amanda Okafor, who brought her three children from the United States to partake in the programme, expressed her appreciation. She commended the programme’s dynamic approach, which educates the younger generation about financial markets in an engaging and exciting manner, fostering an enriching and memorable experience for her children.
Nestor Odionyenma, a participant from Ray Jacobs Boarding School, Imo State, attested to the programme’s impact. He acknowledged the wide array of learning activities and the valuable insights gained into financial market instruments. Nestor also cherished the bonds formed with peers from diverse backgrounds, describing the experience as an engaging and enriching journey.
As FMDQ Group continues its mission to empower young minds through innovative initiatives, the Next Generation Financial Markets Empowerment Programme stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to shaping a knowledgeable and forward-looking generation.
