EGED Programme Delivers Financial Literacy Seminars in Rural Municipalities of Kyrgyzstan

The seminars specifically target women, youth, and socially vulnerable groups, who often face limited access to financial knowledge, funding opportunities and investment instruments.

The trainings are delivered under the theme “Financial Literacy and Investment Mindset Development for Vulnerable Groups in Rural Areas of Kyrgyzstan” and are initiated by Coordination Councils with the support of district state administrations.

According to Ainura Balakunova, DPI Consultant, the core value of the initiative lies in its inclusive approach: “The programme intentionally engages women, youth, vulnerable groups and aspiring entrepreneurs, helping to expand their economic opportunities and strengthen their participation in local economic development”.

The seminars go beyond basic financial literacy, aiming to develop an investment mindset and practical skills for preparing business projects for financing.

Participants learn on:

personal and business financial management;
budgeting and financial planning;
profitability analysis and break-even calculations;
differences between grants, loans and investments;
investor requirements and project pitching skills.

Entrepreneur Nazgul Salimbaeva highlighted the practical value of the training:
“I realized how debt traps affect business growth and decided to adopt a ‘financial diet’ focused on growth-oriented financing”.

Entrepreneur Chynara Tynysova emphasized the importance of peer learning:
“The participation of young people was especially valuable, creating space for mutual learning and exchange of experience”.

Healthcare worker Roza Orzubekova noted that the seminar helped her clarify personal goals: “I plan to open a women’s fitness center and now clearly understand the first steps”.

Participants expressed strong interest in continuing and expanding such initiatives, underlining the importance of financial literacy for households, local businesses and investment development, as well as the need to address high household debt levels.

The seminars are implemented within the EGED Programme with financial support from the UK Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).