The study, published in BMC Medical Education, included midwifery educators from all higher education institutions in the country. The results show that 79 per cent need more support in course planning and module development, the same proportion in academic writing and leadership, and 77 per cent in research methodology. Many also identified a need to strengthen clinical teaching, both in simulation settings and on hospital wards.
“We see great commitment and a strong willingness to improve the education. There is a clear drive among the educators to raise quality, despite limited resources,” says Malin Bogren, midwife and Associate Professor at the University of Gothenburg.
The educators preferred shorter, intensive training initiatives combining face-to-face sessions with digital elements, known as blended learning.
“The study is now being used as a basis for planning upcoming training initiatives for midwifery educators in Rwanda. It is a clear example of how research can contribute to developing education and healthcare in practice,” says Malin Bogren.
Over the past two decades, Rwanda has made significant progress in maternal and child health, including a substantial reduction in maternal mortality. In the longer term, the aim is for the country to have sufficient numbers of midwives with the right competencies and recognised professional status, particularly in areas where the needs are greatest. The new competency-based curriculum is built on the guidelines of the International Confederation of Midwives and is intended to ensure that future midwives have the knowledge and skills required to provide safe care.
“To implement this kind of educational reform, educators need the right competencies and adequate support. Our research highlights where the needs are greatest and how training initiatives can be tailored,” says Malin Bogren.
Collaboration and mutual learning
The study was carried out by researchers at the University of Gothenburg and Dalarna University, in collaboration with Rwandan universities, the Ministry of Health, the midwives’ association and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The collaboration is grounded in mutual learning, with Swedish researchers contributing experience of integrating research and education, while the partnership provides new perspectives on how midwifery education is delivered in resource-limited settings.
“The most inspiring aspect is how much we learn from one another. Our colleagues in Rwanda demonstrate a strong sense of optimism and determination that is truly contagious,” says Malin Bogren.
