A Protocol for Exploring Youth Perspectives on the Future of Medicine in Senegal: A Qualitative Study

The future of medicine in Africa necessitates the engagement of its youth. In Senegal, a substantial proportion of the population is young, yet their perspectives on medical careers, healthcare priorities, and the evolution of the medical field remain inadequately documented. Understanding these views is critical for shaping relevant medical education and health policy. This study aims to explore the perceptions, aspirations, and concerns of Senegalese youth regarding the future of medicine in their country. Its specific objectives are to identify key themes in their views on medical careers, the integration of technology in healthcare, and the desired direction for national health systems. This is a qualitative research protocol employing a phenomenological approach. Data will be collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with purposively sampled youth participants from diverse educational and regional backgrounds in Senegal. Thematic analysis will be applied to the transcribed data. As this is a protocol for proposed research, empirical findings are not yet available. The study is designed to generate insights into specific themes, such as the prioritisation of community-based primary care versus highly specialised hospital medicine among participants. The study will conclude by synthesising the collected perspectives to provide a nuanced understanding of how Senegalese youth envision the future of medicine, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. Expected recommendations will target medical educators, health policymakers, and professional bodies. They will suggest ways to align medical training and health system planning with the aspirations of the next generation. Medical careers, health policy, qualitative research, sub-Saharan Africa, medical education, youth engagement. This protocol outlines a study designed to contribute original data on youth perspectives. This data will inform strategic planning for medical workforce development and health system strengthening in Senegal.