Maseno University Hosts Vibrant Western Region Actuarial Product Design Competition
Maseno University was a hive of activity on 5th December 2025 as it hosted the Western Region Actuarial Product Design Competition, an annual showcase that brought together some of the brightest actuarial science students from across Kenya. Organised by the Actuarial Students Society of Kenya (ASSK), this year’s edition ran under the theme “Actuaries Beyond Numbers,” capturing the creativity and innovation that defined the day.
The event was spearheaded by the University’s Actuarial Science Department under the patronage of Dr. Joshua Were and the Dean of the School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science, Dr. Isaac Owino Okoth, whose leadership ensured that Maseno University delivered an exceptional hosting experience. Their support highlighted the institution’s dedication to academic excellence and student empowerment.
More than nine universities sent delegations to the competition, with students arriving early armed with laptops, posters, and months of research to present their innovative products and actuarial solutions. The atmosphere was upbeat and charged with anticipation as teams prepared to defend their ideas before a panel of esteemed judges.
The competition’s judging panel featured distinguished scholars and professionals: Dr. Cynthia Anyango and Dr. Purity Kiptum from Maseno University, Dr. Sharon Akinyi of the University of Kabianga, and industry expert Mr. Leonard Korir, CEO Mobidev Kenya Ltd. Their expertise set a high standard for the contest, and they offered insightful feedback aimed at guiding students towards even more impactful research.
The student presentations reflected a mix of creativity, analytical skill, and practical relevance ranging from Modern Insurance Solutions to Innovative Financial Risk Models. The judges commended the participants for their clarity, confidence, and technical depth, noting that the level of preparation mirrored emerging trends in the actuarial industry.
Among the key figures present was Mr. Sikiti Barasa, Chairman of the Actuarial Students Society of Maseno University. In his remarks, he expressed pride in Maseno’s role as host and praised the dedication of students who had committed significant time and effort to their projects. He encouraged them to continue exploring new ideas, emphasizing that actuaries must always be forward-thinking problem- solvers.
The event was further honoured by the attendance of Miss Shelmith Mwangi, President of the Actuarial Students Society of Kenya. She delivered a motivational speech, applauding the participants for their hard work and urging them to remain innovative and collaborative. She reaffirmed ASSK’s commitment to offering platforms that bridge academia and professional practice.
Throughout the day, the competition transformed into more than just a contest, it became a vibrant space for learning, networking, and intellectual exchange. Students shared insights, built new connections, and gained exposure to emerging issues in the actuarial field.
By the close of the event, one message resonated clearly: the future of actuarial science in Kenya is bright. Maseno University’s hosting of the 2025 Western Region competition reaffirmed its place as a leading academic hub committed to nurturing the next generation of actuarial leaders.