Brechas y desafíos en la educación financiera en Ecuador: un estudio del Cantón La Libertad, Provincia de Santa Elena, año 2025

Abstract

Abstract: The present research study aimed to identify gaps and challenges in financial education in 2025 among residents of the La Libertad canton, Santa Elena province, in order to assess levels of knowledge, behavior, and attitudes toward personal financial management. A quantitative approach and a cross-sectional descriptive design were used, applying structured surveys administered to 135 individuals over the age of 18, based on OECD guidelines for calculating financial capabilities. The results showed that, although the population holds financial products, only a small portion of the community has basic financial products such as savings accounts and credit cards; however, there are limitations in the use of digital services, limited knowledge of financial tools, poor financial planning, and weak resilience to income loss. Relevant differences were identified according to educational level, gender, place of residence, and employment status. The study concludes that financial education in the canton exhibits significant gaps that need to be addressed thru informational programs and initiatives promoting effective financial inclusion.