Brechas y desafíos en la educación financiera en Ecuador: un estudio regional del cantón Ibarra, año 202

Abstract

Abstract: The thesis, titled Gaps and Challenges in Financial Education in Ecuador: A Regional Study of the Ibarra Canton, 2025, aimed to analyze the shortcomings and challenges in financial literacy among the population of Ibarra. The descriptive research, focused on sociodemographic variables, confirmed that financial education is an urgent challenge in Ecuador, where less than 30% of the population understands basic concepts such as simple interest. In the Ibarra canton, despite a high rate of financial inclusion (83.6%), significant gaps persist in key knowledge areas such as saving, budgeting, and the use of products like insurance or investments. The study determined that gender inequality and living in rural areas are factors that contribute to lower levels of knowledge. Furthermore, a considerable portion of the population (32.56%) expresses a perception of financial fatalism and scarcity. Recommendations include strengthening digital financial education programs adapted to different educational levels and population groups. It is crucial to promote specific strategies aimed at women in rural areas to reduce inequalities, and to encourage continuing education beyond formal institutions, including family socialization and government campaigns.