El Salvador’s Ministry of Education, in partnership with the National Bitcoin Office, unveiled the country’s first financial education textbook during an event at the National Library (Binaes). Titled “What is Money?”, the book will be distributed to second and third-grade students in public schools starting in 2026.
Education Minister Mauricio Pineda emphasized the project’s long-term vision: “It is the first of many books. We will produce financial education materials, starting from second grade through high school. This is a collaboration—a very well-crafted book based on gamification, so that children engage with colors, cutting, painting, and drawing. These elements are part of the process incorporated into this book.”
The textbook covers foundational topics like the history of money, the evolution of the U.S. dollar’s value, price dynamics, and even introduces abstract concepts such as Bitcoin.
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Pineda highlighted its societal impact: “I am convinced that by teaching our children from second grade onward, we will create better citizens—more responsible in managing their money. Something you and I couldn’t learn when we were in school.”
A design team affiliated with the Bitcoin Office collaborated with the Ministry of Education to tailor the content and illustrations to the students’ age groups.
“This is a day of celebration. I am very happy because we are now envisioning a completely renewed, relevant education system,” Pineda added during the event, which featured interactive activities where children and parents explored the material.
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