BULAWAYO, June 11 (NewsDay Live) -The Insurance Institute of Zimbabwe (IIZ) 2026 Winter School officially opened in Bulawayo Thursday morning, with industry leaders calling for continuous learning, mentorship and innovation to help build a sector capable of navigating emerging disruptions.
Running under the theme, “Future-proofing Insurance: Navigating Disruption to Build a Resilient and Sustainable Industry,” the annual gathering has drawn insurance professionals from across the country to discuss industry challenges and professional development.
Speaking during the opening session, IIZ president Clementine Chinyuku said the winter school was a strategic platform for developing the skills and leadership required to drive the sector forward.
“The IIZ Winter School is not just a calendar event, it is a moment of intentional investment in capability, in character, and in the future of Zimbabwe's insurance industry,” she said.
Chinyuku said the programme was designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional excellence by equipping participants with practical skills and exposure to current industry trends.
“In insurance, knowledge is not enough. Competence must be built, tested, as well as applied. The industry does not reward those who merely know insurance terms.
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“It rewards those who can solve problems, interpret risk, communicate clearly, and make sound decisions under pressure,” she said.
Chinyuku also highlighted the importance of continuous professional development, describing it as a mindset rather than a compliance exercise.
“The future of insurance is now, and it is shaped by evolving customer expectations, technology adoption and automation, new channels for distribution and service, changing risk landscapes, and heightened scrutiny on trust, claims handling, and ethical conduct,” she said.
IIZ general manager Davison Choeni challenged insurers to move in pace with ongoing technological advancements.
“Across the world, our industry is being reshaped by technological innovation, evolving customer expectations, emerging risks, regulatory developments, climate change, and artificial intelligence. These changes challenge us, but they also present remarkable opportunities for growth, innovation, and transformation.”