From Financial Literacy to Financial Inclusion

Mediating Role of Digital Financial Innovation among University Students

Authors

  • Ajaya Prasad Dhakal Central Department of Management, Tribhuvan University, Nepal Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/9ab1mz40

Keywords:

Digital financial innovation, financial literacy, financial inclusion, financial technology, University students

Abstract

Purpose: Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior and financial literacy theory, this study examined the influence of financial literacy on financial inclusion through the mediating role of digital financial innovation.

Design/methodology/approach:  Using a survey design, cross-sectional data were collected from 389 university students conveniently in Kathmandu Valley. The data were analysed using PLS-SEM. 

Findings: The findings revealed that financial literacy significantly influences both financial inclusion and digital financial innovation. Likewise, digital financial innovation exerts a significant positive effect on financial inclusion and significantly mediates the relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion.

Conclusion: The findings underline the important role of financial literacy in shaping university students' attitudes and engagement with digital financial innovation while contributing to financial inclusion.

Implications: Practically, the findings can inform universities, banks, fintech providers, and regulators seeking to build financially capable and digitally included young adults.

Originality/value: This study contributes by providing evidence from a developing-country university context on the role of financial literacy in advancing financial inclusion in the digital era

JEL Classification: D14, G2, G51, G53, O33

Author Biography

  • Ajaya Prasad Dhakal, Central Department of Management, Tribhuvan University, Nepal

    Ajaya Prasad Dhakal is an Associate Professor of Finance and Accounting at the Central Department of Management, Faculty of Management, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal. His research examines contemporary issues in corporate finance, financial management, investment analysis, accounting, and capital markets, with a particular emphasis on evidence-based financial decision-making in emerging economies. He has extensive experience in graduate teaching, research supervision, and scholarly publishing, and continues to contribute to the advancement of finance and accounting research through academic collaboration and applied research.

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Published

2026-07-26

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Social Security, Protection, and Inclusion