The 9th graduation ceremony of the Insurance Training College (ITC), held at Hotel Africana on December 6, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for the insurance industry, a sector with immense growth potential but currently limited by a penetration rate of just about 1%. This event celebrated the achievement of 936 graduates, of whom 635 were female, highlighting a progressive shift towards gender diversity in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Christine Nalwanga, a graduate and Claims Manager at Sanlam Life Insurance, shared her success story, citing ITC's role in boosting her confidence and enhancing her professional capabilities. Her journey exemplifies how ITC graduates are set to transform the insurance landscape, bringing new energy and expertise to a sector poised for growth.
This influx of skilled professionals is crucial for the insurance sector's expansion and innovation. The growing representation of women in insurance signifies a broader range of perspectives and ideas, essential for driving the industry forward. As these graduates enter the workforce, they bring fresh insights and innovations to help the industry address its current challenges and expand its reach.
The Guest of Honor, Prof. Moses Muhwezi, Principal at Makerere University Business School (MUBS), shared an inspiring message about the importance of education in transforming industries. He highlighted the importance of the insurance sector, urging graduates to ensure it remains dynamic, ethical, and adaptable to future challenges. “Lead with integrity and passion, knowing your contributions will have a lasting impact,” he encouraged.
Francesca Kakooza, representing Alhaj Kaddunabbi Ibrahim, the CEO of the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), acknowledged the increasing demand for diverse talent in the sector. She inspired graduates by highlighting the insurance industry's critical role in safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring resilience in uncertain times. Kakooza affirmed IRA's commitment to supporting the sector's growth and expressed enthusiasm for the positive changes these new professionals will bring.
Saul Sseremba, Principal of ITC, reiterated the importance of continuous learning in the fast-evolving insurance industry. He encouraged graduates to remain engaged with ITC's training programs to maintain their competitiveness and meet regulatory standards. Sseremba also highlighted ITC's growth and expansion efforts, including extending its reach to countries like Burundi and South Sudan and integrating insurance studies into secondary school curricula, thus laying a strong foundation for future industry professionals.
The ITC graduation ceremony celebrated individual achievements and underscored the vital role of skilled professionals in advancing the insurance industry. As these graduates embark on their careers, they carry the potential to drive innovation and expand the industry's reach, addressing the critical need for growth and higher penetration in the market.