Israel's schools introduce a new subject: financial education

Israel's Ministry of Education announced the introduction of a new subject—financial education—for ninth graders in the 2026-2027 school year. The program covers four topics: consumer habits, banking, the labor market, and investments. From autumn 2027, the subject is planned for tenth graders as well. By the start of the school year, 550 teachers have been trained, with 2,050 more joining by September-October.

Israel's Ministry of Education unveiled details on Sunday, August 2, about a new subject—financial education (חינוך פיננסי)—included in the ninth-grade curriculum for the 2026-2027 school year. Plans include increasing instructional hours and, from autumn 2027, teaching financial management basics in tenth grade as well. The program was developed by the ministry's pedagogical secretariat with input from a group of academic and economic experts led by Professor Yaniv Reingewertz of the University of Haifa. Education Minister Yoav Kisch stated that the subject is an important step in preparing the new generation to handle everyday problems. A ninth grader from Hadera, Or Mesika, believes every graduate should know how to manage money. Experts note uneven levels of economic knowledge among high school students. By the start of the school year, 550 teachers have been trained, with an additional 2,050 joining in September-October 2026. The program includes four topics: consumer habits and financial decisions, the banking sector, changes in the labor market, and basic knowledge about investments and risk. For tenth graders, the concept of 'human capital' and an introduction to the stock exchange, real estate, and currency markets will be added.