Financial Troubles of Ota Negramota

The series Financial Troubles of Ota Negramota is an educational initiative by the Czech National Bank aimed at developing financial literacy among upper primary school students and first-year secondary school students. The project seeks to introduce young people to the world of finance in a fun and understandable way, teaching them fundamental principles of money management, debt, budgeting, saving, and safe shopping. The series combines real-life situations with practical advice and promotes critical thinking and responsible approaches to personal finance. Through the main character, Ota Negramota, who encounters various financial problems, students can observe the consequences of poor decisions and learn from them.

Key Activities and Student Experience
The primary activity of the series is watching short educational videos in which Ota Negramota navigates everyday financial situations. Each episode focuses on a specific topic, such as personal budgeting, saving, loans, debt, risks of impulsive spending, or safe online shopping. After each episode, students can complete interactive quizzes that allow them to test their knowledge and understanding of the topic. Teachers can use the quizzes as a basis for discussions, reflections, and practical exercises, in which students analyze their own financial decision-making and strategies.

Program Features and Principles
The series combines entertainment with educational content, increasing student engagement and motivation. The project supports active learning, the development of critical thinking, and the ability to plan and analyze the consequences of decisions. Students learn that every financial decision has consequences and gain practical advice for responsible money management. The series is free and available online, allowing flexible use at school or at home. Teachers can integrate it into lessons in civics, economics, mathematics, or project-based learning, while also linking it to practical activities and discussions about real financial situations.

Methodology and Structure
The series is divided into multiple episodes, each covering a separate topic in financial literacy. Students watch a video, discuss the principles presented, and then complete an interactive quiz or exercise. This approach enables systematic knowledge acquisition, supports the application of concepts in real-life situations, and develops analytical skills. Educators can combine episodes according to class needs and use them for group work or individual student reflection.

Expected Outcomes and Value
By participating in the series, students gain a comprehensive understanding of basic financial literacy principles, learn to plan a budget, distinguish between needs and wants, assess the risks of loans, and understand the importance of saving. The project promotes critical thinking, the ability to analyze the consequences of decisions, and teaches students responsible approaches to finances. Interactive quizzes and discussions actively engage students, increasing motivation and interest in the subject. The Financial Troubles of Ota Negramota series exemplifies an educational tool that integrates entertainment, practical experience, and theoretical knowledge, preparing young people for real-life financial situations.