Abir sponsors free insurance course for sixth year
A free foundational course providing the public, including Bermudian students, with free access to education about the island’s (insurance and) reinsurance industry will be sponsored for the sixth consecutive year by the Association of Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers.
John Huff, the Abir chief executive, said the continued sponsorship by Abir members reflected their dedication and support of the community education initiative and the building of a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline.
“By opening doors to Bermudians who are curious about the sector, we are helping to inspire the next generation of leaders in an industry that is both global and vital to Bermuda’s economy,” he added.
The Special Topics in Insurance programme, starting in January, is offered in collaboration with Bermuda College and the Maurice R Greenberg School of Risk Management, Insurance and Actuarial Science at St John’s University, New York.
Mark J Browne, professor and chair of the faculty, said the course would provide insights into Bermuda’s insurance sector and serve as a gateway for those interested in such careers.
The 14-week, online course serves as a stepping stone for potential careers in the industry.
The Bermuda Foundation for Insurance Studies, which helps Bermudian students build careers in the industry through financial support and mentorship, is a new partner this year and will co-ordinate the course and engage with students.
Victoria Cunningham, the BFIS executive director, said: “This established and highly successful programme aligns seamlessly with our mission and BFIS is honoured to be its new home. It has already changed lives and bringing it under BFIS strengthens what we do best: preparing young Bermudians to succeed in international business.”
Lloyd’s, the longest-standing global market, and The Institutes Knowledge Group, a global provider of online courses and designations in the risk management and insurance field including the Bermuda-important Associate in Reinsurance designation, are continuing their partnership with the programme for a second year.
Craig Simmons, retired senior lecturer at Bermuda College and the course facilitator, said: “At its core, insurance is about making people whole after they experience an unfortunate or catastrophic event. This course will give you clues about how insurance does just that. We’ll explain the difference between insurance and reinsurance and then take deep dives into the various lines of reinsurance produced on island.
“Each week, starting Monday, January 12, we’ll take on a different topic. If you’re in the industry and wondered what your colleagues in cyber, life, or legacy are doing, or if you wanted to know more about catastrophe models and climate change, then this is the course for you.”
The programme will be conducted via Zoom on Monday evenings from 6pm to 8pm.
• For more on The Special Topics in Insurance programme, see Related Media

