The findings are important as many Indonesian households continue to face rising living costs, increasing consumer spending pressures, and limited financial planning practices. Strengthening financial literacy among housewives is considered a practical strategy for improving family economic resilience because women often play a central role in managing household budgets and daily expenditures.
Family financial stability is not determined solely by income levels. The ability to manage money effectively, prioritize spending, and plan for future needs is equally important. Despite improvements in Indonesia’s national financial literacy rate in recent years, many families still struggle with budgeting, expense tracking, and distinguishing between essential needs and discretionary spending.
According to the researchers from STIE Indonesia Banking School, inadequate financial literacy can lead households into recurring budget deficits, excessive consumer debt, and long-term financial vulnerability. In urban communities, where living expenses are relatively high, these challenges become even more pronounced.
To address these issues, the research team organized a community service and education program for members of the Family Welfare and Empowerment (PKK) organization in Kwitang. The initiative focused on practical financial management skills that participants could immediately apply in their daily lives.
The educational program involved approximately 40 housewives and was delivered through an interactive, participatory approach. Participants first completed a pre-test designed to measure their initial understanding of financial literacy concepts. They then attended a short educational session covering household budgeting, income and expense recording, spending prioritization, saving habits, and smart shopping strategies.
Rather than relying on complex financial theories, the program used real-life examples and practical simulations. Participants were encouraged to discuss their personal experiences managing household finances and to share challenges they commonly face when balancing family expenses.
One of the central messages of the program was the importance of maintaining simple financial records. By recording income and expenditures regularly, families can gain a clearer understanding of their financial condition and identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary spending.
Participants also learned how to distinguish between needs and wants. This concept was presented as a foundation for making better financial decisions and avoiding impulsive purchases that often result from attractive promotions and discounts.
Another major topic was smart shopping behavior. The researchers recommended practical strategies such as:
- Creating a shopping list before making purchases.
- Comparing prices across different sellers.
- Avoiding impulse buying.
- Evaluating whether discounted products are genuinely needed.
- Allocating part of household income to savings before spending on non-essential items.
The educational session also emphasized the value of consistent saving habits. Even small savings contributions made regularly can help families prepare for emergencies, children's education expenses, and future financial goals.
The results revealed a significant improvement in participant understanding following the program.
Key findings include:
- Average pre-test score: 83.42
- Average post-test score: 94.47
- Overall improvement in understanding: 13.25%
The increase in post-test scores indicates that participants successfully absorbed the educational material and developed a stronger understanding of family financial management principles.
Beyond numerical improvements, the researchers observed meaningful changes in participant attitudes toward financial decision-making. Many participants reported greater awareness of the importance of budgeting, monitoring expenses, and prioritizing essential household needs.
The program evaluation also produced highly positive feedback. Participants rated all assessment categories above 5 on a 6-point scale. The highest scores were recorded for overall satisfaction and perceived usefulness, suggesting that the educational content addressed real challenges faced by families.
During discussion sessions, many participants acknowledged that they previously struggled with financial planning despite managing household budgets every day. Several reported that they rarely recorded expenses and often made unplanned purchases influenced by promotions or discounts.
Through interactive simulations and group discussions, participants began to recognize how seemingly small spending habits could affect long-term financial stability. The researchers noted a visible shift from a consumption-oriented mindset toward a more planned and rational approach to money management.
Dr. Ossi Ferli and colleagues from STIE Indonesia Banking School emphasized that financial literacy education is most effective when delivered in a practical and relatable format. Their findings suggest that short, interactive learning sessions can successfully encourage positive financial behavior, particularly among community groups responsible for managing household finances.
The broader implications extend beyond individual families. Improved household financial literacy can help reduce vulnerability to debt, strengthen economic resilience, and support long-term financial well-being. Community-based financial education programs may also serve as an effective public policy tool for improving financial inclusion and economic stability at the local level.
For local governments, educational institutions, and community organizations, the results demonstrate the value of investing in practical financial literacy initiatives. Expanding similar programs could help more families develop sustainable financial habits and improve their overall quality of life.
Author Profile
Ossi Ferli is a lecturer, researcher, and financial literacy specialist at STIE Indonesia Banking School (IBS), Indonesia. His expertise includes financial literacy, financial behavior, personal finance management, and community financial education. This project was conducted in collaboration with Santi Rimadias, Fasya Febiani, Furkon Ardhani, Muhammad Leonardo, and Reksa Akbar Maulana, also affiliated with STIE Indonesia Banking School.
Source
Article Title: Family Financial Management Education and Smart Shopping for Housewives in the Kwitang Sub-District Area
Authors: Ossi Ferli, Santi Rimadias, Fasya Febiani, Furkon Ardhani, Muhammad Leonardo, Reksa Akbar Maulana
Journal: Jurnal Pengabdian Pancasila (JPP)
Year: 2026
Volume: 5, Issue 2, Pages 67–78
0 Komentar