The Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Negeri Semarang (FEB UNNES) recently released research findings that reveal the key to accelerating digital transactions among young people. The team, led by Andhi Wijayanto, S.E., M.M., found that mastery of digital financial literacy and gender equality are two key drivers driving Gen Z students to switch to using digital wallets and QRIS. Interestingly, this research not only demonstrates a causal relationship but also confirms that a gender-equal environment can magnify the positive influence of financial literacy education on cashless transaction behavior.
The study, titled “The Influence of Digital Financial Literacy on the Use of Cashless Payments among Gen Z Students: Gender Moderation in Achieving Sustainable Development,” confirms that students’ level of understanding of digital platforms significantly influences their decision to use cashless transactions. Students with high literacy tend to be more confident in utilizing modern payment systems because they understand their security, speed, and efficiency. Further research reveals that gender equality acts as a moderating factor, strengthening the relationship between literacy and action. Research shows that when perceptions of and access to financial technology are equal between male and female students, participation in the formal financial ecosystem increases more evenly, demonstrating that financial inclusion depends not only on technical education but also on a gender-sensitive approach.
Strategically, this research provides a clear roadmap for accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multidimensional contributions. By focusing on strengthening digital financial literacy, this study directly drives SDG 4: Quality Education, through the development of economic education curricula and programs relevant to the digital era in higher education institutions. A sound financial understanding is the foundation for creating superior and competitive human resources. Furthermore, increasing the adoption of inclusive cashless payments is a key component of achieving SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Efficient and widespread digital transactions ensure smooth economic flows, boost productivity, and create new jobs in the technology and financial services sectors. Payment system innovation also forms a critical component of modern financial infrastructure, supporting resilient and sustainable industrial growth.
Equally important, this study firmly places SDG 5: Gender Equality at the heart of digital financial transformation. By identifying that gender moderates literacy effectiveness, it affirms that sustainable economic development must be inclusive and empowering for all groups. Digital financial literacy policies and campaigns that ignore the equality dimension risk widening the gap in economic participation between men and women. As a testament to its commitment, this research has produced strategic outcomes in the form of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Implementation Arrangement (IA), and reputable international scientific publications. The success of the FEB UNNES team not only strengthens the university’s position as a center for relevant digital economic research but also emphasizes the active role of academics in shaping a fairer, more modern, and more sustainable financial future for all generations.
