RBZ launches Schools Monetary Policy Challenge to nurture future economic leaders

THE Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) this Friday launched the Schools Monetary Policy Challenge (SMPC), an initiative designed to equip learners with financial literacy skills while exposing them to real-world monetary policy issues and national economic discourse.

The programme, which will run until December 2026, is open to all registered secondary and high schools in Zimbabwe, including government, mission and private institutions.

Interested schools are required to register through the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.

Speaking at the launch in Harare, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor, John Mushayavanhu, said the initiative seeks to empower young Zimbabweans with a deeper understanding of monetary policy and prepare them to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic development.

To support the programme, Mushayavanhu presented ZiG10 million towards the competition, underscoring the central bank’s commitment to promoting financial literacy among school children.

The challenge will see learners vying for the prestigious titles of Child RBZ Governor and Child Deputy Governors, while engaging with practical monetary policy issues affecting Zimbabwe’s economy.

Participating teams will be required to conduct research, complete assignments, organise financial literacy activities within their communities and deliver structured economic presentations throughout the competition.

The SMPC also seeks to encourage learners to participate in national conversations on monetary policy while strengthening their understanding of financial systems and economic governance.

Addressing delegates at the launch, Child President of Zimbabwe, Tinashe Mugodhi, expressed confidence in the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency and welcomed the introduction of the SMPC, saying it would empower young people with knowledge essential for the country’s future.

The SMPC is expected to culminate in December 2026 following a series of research, community engagement and presentation stages involving schools from across the country.

Education stakeholders say the initiative represents a significant step towards cultivating a financially literate generation capable of making informed economic decisions and contributing to Zimbabwe’s long-term economic growth.