"I cannot even imagine this country without this training" - A mixed methods assessment of three midwifery schools in South Sudan.

AIM: To determine the strengths and weaknesses of the midwifery education program at three IMC-supported schools and their associated clinical sites in South Sudan.

BACKGROUND

Evidence indicates that investing in midwifery education can substantially reduce maternal mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional mixed methods assessment.

METHOD: A rapid assessment was conducted of three schools to assess four areas of pre-service midwifery education: infrastructure and management, teachers and preceptors, clinical practice sites and students. Additionally, key informant interviews were conducted with school faculty, clinical preceptors and Ministry of Health (MOH) representatives to examine challenges and successes. Teachers and clinical preceptors were interviewed in dyads or triads, while school principals and MOH representatives were interviewed individually.

RESULTS

Findings suggest that the overall program is strong, with trained and competent teaching staff and adequate classroom facilities and teaching equipment. Key challenges include a shortage of qualified clinical preceptors, low compensation of teachers and preceptors, inadequate financial support from the Ministry of Health, overcrowding at some clinical sites and the impact of insecurity on education.

CONCLUSIONS

Addressing these challenges is essential to sustain and improve midwifery education and reproductive healthcare in South Sudan. It is critical that midwifery training programs effectively equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to serve their communities. Overcoming the identified barriers will require coordinated efforts from multiple stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, midwifery program and international organizations.