Muzi Dadla
As we closed off 2025, we took a deliberate step towards shaping the future of the short-term insurance industry with the launch of two skills development initiatives: the NextGen Insurance Specialist Programme and the Loss Adjuster Programme.
Through our partnership with the Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA), these programmes respond directly to two pressing realities facing our country: youth unemployment and the critical shortage of skilled insurance professionals. Both these challenges need action and collaboration across the industry.
With South Africa’s youth unemployment rate at 46.1 percent for those aged 15 to 34, and 62.4 percent for those aged 15 to 24, meaningful interventions are a necessity. These programmes create practical pathways into the industry by equipping young people from previously disadvantaged backgrounds with real skills, recognised qualifications, and hands-on experience. The outcome is simple but powerful, through the programmes we will be able to produce skilled loss adjusters and brokers who can contribute to the insurance sector.
It is important to note that this initiative is not charity, but a strategic necessity. The insurance industry cannot grow or remain relevant without a diverse pipeline of capable talent, at the same time, young South Africans cannot build economic security without access to genuine opportunities.
Together, these programmes will empower 54 young South Africans. The NextGen Insurance Specialist Programme will support 24 emerging entrepreneurs over 12 months, offering an accredited NQF Level 5 insurance qualification alongside structured workplace exposure at leading brokerages across the country. This approach strengthens transformation while expanding insurance access into townships and rural communities.
The Loss Adjuster Programme will support 30 learners across a diverse group: 10 unemployed individuals with no prior insurance experience, 10 individuals with insurance backgrounds who are currently unemployed, and 10 individuals that are employed in smaller firms without formal qualifications. The participants will earn NQF Level 5 accreditation and gain practical experience with loss adjusting firms in Johannesburg, directly addressing one of the industry’s most critical skills gaps.
These programmes reflect a broader philosophy. Sustainable transformation requires strong, connected networks. Beyond Sasria and IISA, this initiative brings together the Financial Intermediaries Association (FIA), the Institute of Loss Adjusters, leading brokerages, and loss adjuster organisations nationwide. This ecosystem approach ensures impact that extends well beyond a single intervention.
This initiative is about reshaping the face of our industry. We are not only an insurer; but a strategic partner committed to building an inclusive, competitive, and future-ready insurance sector that reflects the full potential of South Africa. Young people have heard enough promises, what they need is action, certainty, and visible commitment. The introduction of these programmes are a starting point. Within the first year, we expect measurable progress, the results will guild how we scale the programmes and deepen industry participation to future extend their impact across the sector.
Kind regards,
Muzi Dladla
Executive Manager: Stakeholder Management
Sasria is an authorised FSP registered under license number 39117
