A new generation of investors is emerging across the Eastern Caribbean as students gain real-world financial skills through the 3rd Annual Regional Schools Investment Competition (RSIC), an initiative designed to reshape how young people understand money, markets, and long-term financial growth.
The competition, held between October and November 2025, was spearheaded by the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange in collaboration with licensed broker-dealers and the Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission. It brought together students from across ECCB member states, providing them with hands-on exposure to investment strategies and the inner workings of the securities market.
As a key partner, the ECSRC supported the initiative through its role on the organizing committee and judging panel, while also contributing to the overall educational thrust of the programme. Head of Policy, Data Analysis and Regulatory Innovation at the Commission, Samantha Lewis, underscored the importance of introducing investment education at an early age, noting that while many individuals are taught to save, far fewer understand how to invest effectively.
Lewis explained that the Commission views financial literacy—particularly on investing—as critical to the long-term growth of the region’s capital market. She emphasized that building awareness among young people is essential to creating a more active and informed investor base, while also ensuring that the market remains fair, efficient, transparent, and safe.
The impact of the initiative was evident at the school level, where teachers played a central role in guiding students through the complexities of investment decision-making. At Choiseul Secondary School, educators Stephanie Theophane Charles and Shirley Ann James described the competition as a shared learning experience, as both teachers and students navigated unfamiliar concepts together.
Drawing on their experience as first runner-up in the previous year, the teachers adopted a more strategic approach, focusing on market analysis and informed decision-making. Their commitment extended beyond the classroom, with additional hours spent reviewing market trends and studying company performance alongside their students.
For the students, the competition provided a practical introduction to investing. Participant Deidre Dennis described the experience as both engaging and educational, explaining that students learned how to evaluate companies, determine when to buy or sell, and apply strategies based on market trends. She noted that these lessons could be applied beyond the classroom, particularly in building businesses and generating income in the future.
Top honours at the awards ceremony, held on March 26, 2026 at the National Skills Development Centre in Vieux Fort, went to Alite Investors of Choiseul Secondary School, who were named Regional Champions. Grenada Boys Secondary School secured the runner-up position, with other top performers also recognized for their achievements.
In a special highlight of the ceremony, the ECSRC presented an inaugural award to the teachers of Choiseul Secondary School, recognizing their exceptional mentorship and dedication. The gesture underscored the Commission’s broader commitment to fostering financial education and empowering the next generation to participate meaningfully in the region’s investment landscape.
