The adoption of financial technology to improve the financial capability of peri-urban teachers

Abstract

There is a need for more studies exploring how financial technology tools can enhance the financial skills of teachers in peri-urban areas of South Africa. This study aimed to investigate how financial technology can enhance the financial skills of teachers living in peri-urban areas. Exploring the adoption patterns, challenges, and impact of fintech in this context could provide valuable insights to scholarly research and educational policy. The study utilised a positivism research paradigm with a questionnaire survey as the research instrument. 246 high school teachers took part in the study and were chosen through systematic random sampling. The research results showed that most teachers in peri-urban areas had a strong understanding of financial technology. They utilised this information to participate in online shopping, complete electronic bill payments, and carry out cash transactions over the internet. In addition, their proficiency in financial technology allowed them to utilise online financial services, resulting in them favouring internet banking as the most convenient banking method over branch banking and ATM services. Nevertheless, these educators raised issues regarding the security risks linked to internet banking, highlighting the possibility of online hacking or scams leading to financial losses.