SAEF Plays a Role in ISI2025: Transforming the Future of Insurance Through Skills Innovation

The Insurance Skills Indaba 2025 (ISI2025), a first-of-its-kind, three-in-one event, brought together industry leaders, policymakers and professionals to drive forward-thinking conversations on skills development and innovation. The event aimed to merge knowledge-sharing, recognise excellence and create direct career opportunities.

Among the esteemed participants in ISI2025 was the School of Accounting, Economics and Finance (SAEF) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), which highlighted the importance of aligning academic research with real-world industry needs and ensuring that graduates enter the workforce with practical, future-ready skills.

Driven by this year’s theme, “A Responsive Disruption Through Skills Innovation”, the event aimed to reshape the way skills are developed, nurtured, and applied in the evolving world of insurance.

Professor Bomi Nomlala reflected on critical topics shaping the future of insurance. 

Key discussions focused on standing out in a crowded market, developing skills to carve out a unique value proposition, and becoming a successful InsurTech entrepreneur. Other topics explored included how innovation is opening up new markets in Africa, the importance of knowledge-sharing and continuous upskilling in a fast-changing environment, and crafting a digital-first brand strategy by leveraging research and technology to stay ahead.

‘As a research partner, I also contributed to discussions on financial literacy and the importance of early education interventions. The collective insights shared during the Indaba reinforce the need for a united effort across education, regulation and industry to build a future-ready, inclusive insurance sector,’ said Nomlala.

The event also celebrated outstanding contributions to the sector through the Insurance Skills Excellence Awards, honouring those who have significantly advanced skills development and innovation. In parallel, the Insure-Careers Exhibition offered a unique platform for 2 000 learners and job seekers to engage directly with industry experts, explore career pathways and access real-time employment services.

Words: Ayanda Radebe

Photograph: Supplied