From Actuarial Research to Impact on Pension Systems

Originally from Côte d’Ivoire, Keivan Diakité has built a career at the intersection of applied mathematics, actuarial science, and research. After completing a PhD at LIDAM (ISBA), he is now a Data Scientist at Sigedis, where he directly contributes to the analysis and understanding of the pension system in Belgium.
His path reflects an increasingly common trajectory: that of a researcher applying his expertise to concrete societal challenges.
 

What motivated you to pursue a PhD, and why at LIDAM?

I chose LIDAM for its reputation, it is one of the most recognized actuarial research centers in Europe. But beyond prestige, it was mainly the intellectual environment that attracted me.
My PhD topic was interdisciplinary, which allowed me to explore several related fields and interact with experts from diverse backgrounds. This diversity was essential: it helped me step back, combine perspectives, and enrich my thinking.
 

“A PhD did not just deepen my knowledge—it broadened the way I think.”

How would you describe your PhD years?

They were shaped by a rather unique experience: I started my PhD shortly before the COVID-19 lockdown.
This was a significant challenge. For a large part of my early years, I could not attend conferences or academic events, which are typically essential in a doctoral journey.
But this period also taught me something fundamental:
the ability to adapt to uncertainty.

“Despite the distance, I managed to maintain excellent communication with my supervisor and colleagues. This was key to continuing my progress.”

What were the main challenges during that time?

Beyond isolation, the most difficult part was building a research dynamic without “natural” interactions.
In a PhD, many ideas emerge from informal discussions, seminars, and meetings. I had to recreate that environment remotely, in a more proactive way.
 

“This experience taught me to be autonomous, but also not to hesitate to actively seek feedback.”

How did the transition to your current role at Sigedis happen?

The transition was very smooth. My PhD research focused in particular on fairness in pension systems, a topic directly related to my current work in supplementary pensions.
In practice, I was able to reuse my research in an applied context, for instance through reports that contribute to discussions on pension reform.
The main difference lies in the pace:
the professional world is much faster and more results-oriented than academic research.
 

What does your current role look like in practice?

Within the Data Science team at Sigedis, I mainly work on the PensionStat.be platform, which is the reference for pension statistics in Belgium.
My role includes:
•    producing key indicators on statutory and supplementary pensions 
•    analyzing data to address institutional questions 
•    writing thematic reports for stakeholders such as the Court of Audit, ONSS, and INASTI 
 

“What I particularly value is the direct impact of the work: the analyses produced can influence public debates and policies.”

How does your PhD still support your work today?

The PhD gave me much more than technical skills.
It taught me how to:
•    structure complex problems 
•    work rigorously with data 
•    formulate relevant research questions 
•    manage long-term projects 
Above all, it gave me a working method that is transferable to almost any context.
 

What advice would you give to someone considering a PhD?

First and foremost: be curious and motivated.
A PhD is not reserved for an elite. It is accessible to anyone who enjoys learning, asking questions, and exploring a topic in depth.
However, you need to be ready to:
•    step out of your comfort zone 
•    embrace uncertainty 
•    challenge your own ideas 
 

“It is a demanding experience, but incredibly rewarding both intellectually and personally.”

Looking back, would you make the same choice again?

Without hesitation.
I would not trade this experience for professional experience or financial gain. The PhD gave me a broader perspective and analytical skills that I would not have developed otherwise.
But beyond the skills, what left the strongest impression on me were the people and collaborations.
 

“A PhD is as much a human adventure as it is an academic journey.”