Singapore integrates economics into core curriculum from primary school, emphasizing personal finance and entrepreneurship; this yields high financial literacy scores (OECD/INFE 2020)—adults score 65% on literacy tests vs. global 51%, with stronger saving habits and lower debt.
Finland embeds practical economics in "life skills" modules via project-based learning, avoiding rote memorization; results show better long-term financial behaviors, like higher investment rates and reduced impulsivity (PISA financial literacy data).
South Korea mandates economics in high school with real-world simulations; correlates with top global savings rate (36% of GDP) and proactive debt management among youth (World Bank 2023).
These patterns highlight how early, hands-on teaching boosts literacy and economic resilience.
Does these countries have a weaker left parties thanks to it?
No direct evidence links financial literacy education in Singapore or Finland to weaker left-wing parties. Singapore's dominant People's Action Party (centrist-authoritarian) maintains power through economic policies, not literacy programs—financial education supports stability but doesn't erode opposition like the Workers' Party (center-left), which holds ~10% seats (2023 election data).
Finland's left (SDP, Left Alliance) remains strong, often leading coalitions; high literacy correlates with broad economic competence, not partisan decline—social democrats score well on voter trust in fiscal responsibility (Eurobarometer 2024). Patterns suggest education bolsters overall policy savvy, benefiting pragmatic left factions rather than weakening them.