Actuarial was regarded as one of the best degree courses to pursue in Kenya up until when companies decided they don’t need Actuaries after all.Today,the course is worse than the common MBA.
A graduate, who has been frustrated after pursuing the course at the University of Nairobi, shares his story.
“In 2008 I was among the first form four students to get my KCSE results. The examination was hard but out of my efforts, I managed an A.My parents, uncles and the whole village celebrated.
In my school, Maseno School, our teachers encouraged us to pursue hard and marketable courses. Since I had a clue what Actuarial Science was about, I was tempted to make it my first choice. God is good, I was admitted at the University of Nairobi to pursue the same course.
With a lot of optimism, my course mates, would be heard quoting individuals who have succeeded as Actuaries. Names like Alexander Forbes, Centum,Britam,UAP,Jubilee and Nairobi Securities exchange were not uncommon. Everyone was optimistic. The most hilarious thing, which I couldn’t believe, was the fact that Actuaries earn millions in this country.
Four years down the line, armed with my Actuarial degree, I joined the world of tarmacking. My first day was all about fun as I moved from office to office while explaining myself. In all the occasions, I would say ,“I am David,Actuary,and I am searching for employment. Please take my CV to the head of human resources for review, thank you”. I am sure the secretaries laughed and laughed as I walked outside, then dropped my CV in the dustbin.
It is now 4 years since I graduated but the best salary I have earned in my lifetime is Ksh35, 000 per month. I am now here in Nairobi selling Insurance policies, which is not one of the stories I would like to tell.The millions I was being told would come after school is still a dream.
Frustrations are piling up as I apply for jobs on daily basis. I don’t know when God will open windows for me but I am sure one day I will be okay. What pains me is that my brother who is 5 years younger with a diploma in hotel management works with a five star hotel in Nairobi, he earns Ksh 160,000 and his promotion is imminent. Sometimes I see myself not a man enough to share a table with him. He stays in Kileleshwa while my temporary residency is Mathare.
The experience I have gotten out of pursuing Actuarial science won’t allow me to encourage anyone to pursue this course. I am done”
