African Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology | 16 January 2007
An Intervention Study on Youth Perspectives for Advancing Medical Futures in Madagascar
R, a, k, o, t, o, m, a, l, a, l, a, A, n, d, r, i, a, m, a, h, a, r, o, ,, H, a, n, t, a, R, a, s, o, a, n, a, i, v, o
Abstract
The future of medical practice in Africa requires the engagement of its youth. In Madagascar, a gap exists in understanding young people’s views on their potential roles in shaping the medical landscape, hindering targeted interventions. This intervention study aimed to capture and analyse youth perspectives on the future of medicine in Madagascar. Its objective was to identify key themes in their aspirations, perceived barriers, and suggested innovations. A qualitative intervention was conducted using facilitated workshops with purposively sampled youth from urban and peri-urban settings. Data were collected through focus group discussions and scenario-planning exercises. Thematic analysis identified emergent patterns. Analysis revealed a strong aspiration to integrate traditional Malagasy healing practices with modern biomedical systems. Participants identified significant structural barriers to medical careers, including the cost of education and lack of mentorship. They expressed a clear desire for greater access to digital health technologies and community-based training. Malagasy youth hold a forward-looking vision for medicine that values cultural integration and technological advancement. Their perspectives highlight both the potential and the systemic challenges facing the next generation of healthcare practitioners. Medical education curricula should explore modules on integrative medicine. Stakeholders should develop mentorship programmes and advocate for policies that reduce financial barriers to medical training, incorporating youth consultation. Youth perspectives, medical futures, Madagascar, intervention study, qualitative research, healthcare innovation This study provides empirically-grounded insights from Malagasy youth, offering a foundation for designing more responsive educational and policy frameworks for medical development.