Basic financial knowledge is one of the most important educational and training needs in South Africa. Thousands of people enter the working world without this knowledge. Training in personal financial management is essential in order to successfully secure employment or start a business, and to be financially independent upon retirement. Financial skills are the best skills you can acquire, since you will be able to use them to your benefit throughout your life.

Manage your money teaches you to plan your finances, change your financial situation for the better and become financially independent. Empower yourself financially by learning to

• draw up a budget
• use debt wisely and escape debt
• borrow money from a micro-lender
• provide for your family
• buy your own car and home
• make good investments
• protect yourself and your assets
• plan your retirement wisely
• protect your job and start your own business
• use a bank's services and products
• create a positive financial future.

This book helps you set personal goals and gain the necessary self-confidence for successful personal financial planning and management.

Nico Swart is the head of personal financial management at Unisa. He has a business background, is the author of 30 books on personal finance, and has co-authored several books, published many articles and participated in radio and television talk shows. He is very involved in personal financial management and planning and is continuously developing material that will contribute to the economic and social upliftment of the South African population.