Educating for empowerment: The importance of ethical foundations in women's growth

It has become a powerful tool for fostering ethical decision-making, social responsibility, and personal empowerment, especially amongst women.

In today's rapidly evolving world, the role of education extends far beyond traditional subjects. It has become a powerful tool for fostering ethical decision-making, social responsibility, and personal empowerment, especially amongst women. As society increasingly emphasises sustainability and transparency, educational institutions are now tasked with preparing the next generation of leaders who prioritise not only success but also ethical integrity. This article explores how education, particularly financial literacy and ethics, can serve as the foundation for empowering individuals—especially women— to make informed, responsible decisions that benefit both themselves and the broader community.

Yaseen Sahar, an acclaimed leader in investment management, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address at Ethiraj College for Women’s Annual Association Meet, FINANCIA 2024, hosted by the Department of B. Com Accounting and Finance. Themed “The Ethical Emporium: Where Money Meets Morals,” this year's event aimed to foster ethical practices within the financial domain, aligning perfectly with Sahar’s advocacy for ethical finance.

Reflecting on the event, Dr. M. Jeyanthi, Vice Principal & Head of the Department of Accounting and Finance at Ethiraj College, said, "We are deeply honored to have Yaseen Sahar as our Chief Guest. His insights on ethical finance were not only inspiring but also pivotal in guiding our students to make morally conscious decisions in their future careers."

Ethiraj College for Women, located in Chennai, is one of the leading institutions dedicated to women's education. Established in 1948 by V. L. Ethiraj, a prominent lawyer and philanthropist, the college was founded with the aim of empowering women through quality education. It is affiliated with the University of Madras and offers a broad spectrum of programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, covering disciplines in arts, science, commerce, and management.
The college has gained a reputation for academic excellence, earning accreditation with an 'A' grade from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and consistently ranking among the top women’s colleges in India. Many alumni of Ethiraj College have gone on to excel in diverse fields, contributing significantly to society in areas like politics, business, arts, and more. Some of its distinguished alumni include politicians, actors, and professionals who are known for their impact in their respective domains.

As the Chief Guest, Sahar shared his insights with a captivated audience of over 500 students, faculty, and industry professionals, offering valuable perspectives on the intersection of ethics and finance. The program, which began with an Inaugural Ceremony at 10:00 AM in the college’s Main Auditorium, saw Sahar deliver his keynote address on the growing significance of ethical finance in shaping the future of global markets.

The Intersection of Ethics and Finance
In his keynote speech, “The Ethical Foundations of Financial Prosperity,” Sahar underscored the importance of integrating ethical principles into financial decision-making. "Ethical finance is not just about avoiding harm—it’s about making conscious, responsible decisions that lead to positive societal outcomes," he stated. He emphasized the role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, noting that nearly 70% of global investors now consider ESG factors in their decision-making process. ESG-focused assets are expected to reach $50 trillion by 2025, showcasing the growing demand for responsible investments.

In keeping with the event’s theme, Sahar highlighted the evolving expectations of today’s investors, especially Gen Z, who increasingly demand transparency, accountability, and sustainability from financial institutions. "Ethical finance is not a trend; it’s a necessity for the long-term stability and trust in our financial systems," he said. Citing research, he mentioned that nearly 85% of Gen Z investors prioritize sustainability and social impact in their investment choices, signalling a shift in financial priorities.

A Call for Financial Literacy Among Women
In addition to discussing the broader implications of ethical finance, Sahar emphasized the importance of promoting financial literacy, particularly among women. He urged educational institutions like Ethiraj College to play a pivotal role in empowering women through financial education. "Financial independence begins with education," Sahar noted. "By equipping women with the knowledge and tools to navigate financial markets, we empower individuals and entire communities to thrive."

Sahar shared insights on the remarkable rise of mutual funds in India, which saw a record AUM (Assets Under Management) of 45.4 trillion ($560 billion) as of August 2024, and pointed out how increased participation by women in financial markets could further accelerate the country’s economic prosperity. He stressed that financial literacy initiatives must be inclusive to ensure that all demographics, especially women, are equipped to make informed financial decisions. A study by SEBI revealed that less than 33% of Indian women have a formal understanding of financial products, highlighting the need for targeted educational efforts.

Championing Gender Equality in Financial Leadership
As a long-standing advocate for gender diversity in financial leadership, Sahar commended Ethiraj College for fostering an environment that nurtures future women leaders. He reiterated the need for more women in leadership roles within the financial industry, calling for active measures to close the gender gap. "Diverse leadership brings diverse perspectives, which in turn leads to better decision-making and innovation in finance," he said. Despite some progress, Sahar pointed out that only 7% of top executive roles in India's financial sector are held by women, according to a 2023 McKinsey report, underscoring the urgent need for change.

A Respected Leader in Finance
Yaseen Sahar’s participation in FINANCIA 2024 further solidifies his standing as a recognized leader in the mutual fund and investment management industry. With nearly two decades of experience, Sahar has made significant contributions to advancing financial literacy, fostering wealth creation, and championing sustainable investment strategies. His efforts have garnered widespread recognition, including prestigious accolades such as the Global Laureate in Finance and Investment Management Business Leader of the Year, among other distinguished honors.

With his extensive experience in investment management, Sahar has become synonymous with thought leadership in financial literacy, mutual fund advisory, and wealth creation. His numerous accolades, including the Global Laureate in Finance and Investment Management Business Leader of the Year, underscore his remarkable achievements. A sought-after author and speaker, Sahar has published numerous influential works on finance, investment, and leadership. His role in driving record asset mobilisation within India’s mutual fund sector continues to affirm his dedication to sustainable, ethical investment practices.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Ethical Leaders
Following his keynote address, Sahar engaged in an interactive Q&A session with students, encouraging them to stay curious and committed to continuous learning. He emphasized the responsibility of the next generation in building a more ethical, inclusive financial ecosystem. "The responsibility to build an ethical financial future rest with this generation, and I have no doubt they will rise to the occasion," Sahar concluded.