Heirs Insurance unveils maiden hackathon with N9m prize pool

Heirs Insurance Group (HIG) has unveiled the maiden edition of the Heirs Insurance Hackathon, a technology-driven programme aimed at empowering students to develop digital solutions for the insurance industry.

Its Group Chief Digital Officer, Mr Peace Philips, said the initiative targets students of universities, polytechnics and other tertiary institutions, with a total prize pool of N9 million for the top three teams.

According to him, the Hackathon is designed to encourage the use of Artificial Intelligence and digital tools to address real-world challenges across the insurance value chain.

Philips noted that participants were expected to build solutions spanning customer experience, claims processing, underwriting, distribution, data management and operational efficiency.

He said registration for the programme would close on Feb. 16, while winning teams would be announced at the Hackathon Grand Finale scheduled for April.

He said, “Africa’s future will be built by young people who have the opportunity to apply their ideas, creativity, and technology skills to real economic challenges.

“Through the Heirs Insurance Hackathon, we are giving the next generation of innovators a platform to engage with the insurance industry, build meaningful solutions, and contribute to shaping a more efficient and inclusive financial system.

“Entries can be submitted on the Heirs Insurance Group website at www.heirsinsurancegroup.com/hackathon/.”

He said the initiative underscored the commitment of Heirs Insurance to youth empowerment, digital skills development and inclusive innovation in the financial services sector.

According to him, the programme will also provide young Nigerians with opportunities to apply emerging technologies to critical industry challenges, while gaining exposure to mentorship, practical insights and real business problems.

He said the Hackathon was in partnership with Redtech, the digital payment solutions arm of Heirs Holdings, which would provide technical support and review submitted solutions.

He said entries would be assessed based on creativity, technical feasibility, scalability and real-world impact.