Circle Internet Financial has introduced a financial literacy curriculum aimed at educating students in California’s Bay Area about Bitcoin, blockchain, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). This collaborative effort involves Junior Achievement of Northern California, a nonprofit organization committed to providing young individuals with skills for economic success.
As a prominent global fintech company known for issuing the USDC token, Circle is teaming up with Junior Achievement to offer high school students insights into internet-based financial services. This initiative reflects both organizations’ shared commitment to preparing youth for success in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
In conjunction with this initiative, Junior Achievement of Northern California will oversee the Circle Scholar award program. This component will include the distribution of twenty $5,000 scholarships to students who successfully complete the Digital Financial Literacy Curriculum between 2023 and 2025.
Despite the recent funding slowdown in the web3 industry, various companies and educational institutions remain dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of the sector. Notably, the University of Nicosia introduced a Master of Science degree in Metaverse Studies, enlisting influential NFT industry figures like Punk6529 and Beeple to educate about NFTs.
Likewise, Hong Kong Polytechnic University launched the city’s inaugural metaverse postgraduate program, “Master of Science in Metaverse Technology.” In addition, South Korea’s LG UPlus partnered with Cheongju University to establish a metaverse campus, catering to tech-savvy students accustomed to virtual learning environments.
The collaboration between Circle and JA Northern California adds to the growing collection of literacy curriculums designed to educate individuals about blockchain technology. Mercina Tillemann-Perez, VP of Circle Impact at Circle,
emphasized the significance of this partnership, noting that simplifying the complexities of decentralized technology and digital assets through collaboration with Junior Achievement will equip students with the resources needed to engage in and shape the next generation of financial services, promoting a more inclusive and equitable industry community
Cristene Burr, President, and CEO of Junior Achievement of Northern California highlighted the innovative nature of the collaboration, emphasizing the transformative potential of the Digital Financial Literacy Curriculum. Burr underscored that this partnership allows students to pursue their post-secondary educational goals while competing for a Circle Scholar Award, underlining the program’s profound impact on shaping future financial leaders.