Title:
Improving Financial Literacy for Inmates

Authors:
Hedwigis Esti Riwayati*, Natali Yustisia, Hikmah A. Rachman, Ign. Septo Pramesworo, Indonesia

Abstract:

The Community Service activity conducted by lecturers and students from Perbanas Institute at the Class IIA Correctional Facility in Salemba, Central Jakarta, aimed to improve the financial literacy of inmates as part of efforts to support their social and economic reintegration after incarceration. Common challenges faced by inmates upon release include limited vocational skills, restricted access to economic opportunities, and a lack of financial management knowledge, which increases the risk of debt entrapment and financial fraud. To address these issues, the Community Service activity carried the theme “Improving Financial Literacy for Inmates,” and was carried out in three phases: pre-test, material presentation, and post-test. A total of twenty male inmates participated in this program. The training materials included basic financial management concepts, the importance of saving, distinguishing needs from wants, and the introduction of financial products. The evaluation was conducted through the distribution of written questionnaires during the pre-test and post-test stages. Analysis results showed a 34 percent increase in post-test scores compared to pre-test scores, indicating an improvement in participants' understanding of financial literacy. This activity demonstrates that community-based financial education can be an effective strategy in equipping inmates to make wise financial decisions upon reintegration into society. Furthermore, this Community Service initiative reinforces the role of higher education institutions in supporting human development and empowering vulnerable groups.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51505/IJEBMR.2025.91217