Strengthening the family economy in Ecuador: financial education and budget planning strategies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62452/m2wfdw66Keywords:
Family economics, financial education, budget planning, savings, economic stability, resource managementAbstract
Family economics is a central element in building individual, family, and social well-being, as it determines households’ capacity to meet basic needs, ensure education and health, and generate opportunities for sustainable development. This study, conducted in Machala and the parish of La Peaña in the canton of Pasaje, Ecuador, addresses challenges related to insufficient income, inefficient resource management, lack of savings habits, and the absence of financial planning in Ecuadorian households. Through a qualitative and applied approach, a financial education training program was implemented, structured into three modules: family financial planning, fundamental financial concepts, and household financial products. The methodology combined theoretical-practical workshops, interactive activities, simulations, and personalized follow-up, promoting active participation of household members and the use of technological tools. Results showed that training in budget preparation, expense control, savings, prioritization of needs, and long-term planning strengthens financial autonomy, encourages responsible economic decisions, and reduces vulnerabilities. Additionally, collective financial education, income diversification, and debt restructuring were highlighted as key strategies to ensure economic stability and build family assets. The study concludes that applying these strategies transforms available resources into tangible and sustainable well-being, consolidates a culture of financial responsibility, and projects family welfare into the future, with positive impacts on community economy and the quality of life of participating households.
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