Education at the heart of our collective commitment
On the occasion of International Day of Education, on 24 January, Societe Generale reaffirms its strong belief that education is key to reducing economic and social inequalities. This commitment is embodied daily by its Corporate Foundation, which is dedicated to promoting equal opportunities and forstering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Why is education central to our mission?
Education is one of the main drivers of equal opportunity. It broadens horizons, enabling everyone to envisage their future and find their place, regardless of their background or personal journey. This is why the Societe Generale Corporate Foundation dedicates more than 50% of its budget to education.
Nearly 70 projects are supported in France and internationally each year. These projects support young people in vulnerable situations by helping them to acquire fundamental skills and financial literacy, and by providing them with opportunities to participate in sports, arts and music. These activities promote education and inclusion, as well as facilitating professional integration into careers related to ecological or digital transitions.
Underpinning all these activities is a shared ambition: to help every young person believe in their potential and build their future.
Fundamental skills: an essential foundation
Mastering the foundamental skills of reading, writing and arithmetic is essential for individual empowerment and social progress. This is why the Foundation supports initiatives led by associations such as 1001 Mots and Coup de Pouce that focus on prevention.
These foundational skills are not just academic; they are also vital for lifelong learning, developing autonomy and critical thinking, and adapting to a constantly changing environment.
In this spirit, Lumières sur l’info, a Foundation partner, offers media literacy workshops and carries out initiatives to combat misinformation and fake news.
Financial education: a pathway to autonomy
Knowing how to manage a budget, understand a contract, and evaluate the consequences of financial decisions is essential for gaining autonomy. However, not all young people have access to this kind of education. Societe Generale supports educational workshops and practical tools alongside associations such as Crésus, designed to help young people better understand daily financial issues and make informed choices.
Music and culture: disciplines of confidence and self-expression
Classical music and modern and contemporary art have long been central to Societe Generale’s cultural commitment. Since 1987, the Group has recognised the educational value of music, believing in its ability to foster skills that extend far beyond artistic practice. For many young people, access to culture and artistic activities can be a powerful driver of empowerment and is sometimes decisive in shaping their personal and professional journeys.
The Foundation supports several initiatives, including the Maîtrise Populaire de l’Opéra-Comique, the DEMOS orchestra led by the Philharmonie de Paris, the Classes Culture at the Musée d’Orsay and the Orchestre à l’École programme. These initiatives offer young people sustained access to challenging musical and cultural opportunities, fostering strong links with local communities and educational institutions.
Sport, a powerful educational and inclusive tool
Through practice and teamwork, it teaches valuable life lessons such as respect for rules, commitment, cooperation, and perseverance. The Societe Generale Foundation supports educational and social inclusion projects through sport, particularly those aimed at young people who are not on traditional pathways. These initiatives provide a structured environment, boost confidence, and open up new opportunities.
Supported organizations include Play International, Le Grand Bleu, Drop de Béton, DAHLIR, Académie Younus and the Boxer Inside Club. All of these organizations use sport as a vehicle for education, social inclusion and re-engagement in school or professional pathways.