A Research Protocol: Exploring Youth Perspectives on the Future of Medicine in Niger

The future of healthcare in Africa requires the engagement of its youth. In Niger, where health systems face substantial challenges, understanding young people’s views on the future of medicine is critical for sustainable development. A lack of research capturing these perspectives limits evidence-based policy and medical education reform. This protocol describes a study to explore and document the perspectives of Nigerien youth on the future of medicine. The primary objective is to identify their aspirations, concerns, and priorities for healthcare development. Secondary objectives include analysing variations in perspectives based on urban or rural residence and educational background. A qualitative, exploratory study will employ focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. Participants will be purposively sampled from youth aged 18–30 in urban and rural settings in Niger. Data collection will occur in local languages and French. Transcripts will be analysed thematically using a framework approach to ensure analytical rigour. As this is a study protocol, no empirical findings are presented. The anticipated analysis will identify key themes, such as the relative emphasis placed on technological innovation versus equitable access to basic care as a future priority. The study is expected to yield a nuanced understanding of youth perspectives, which will be important for shaping relevant medical training and health policy in Niger. Future research should consider longitudinal designs to track how youth perspectives evolve. Study findings should be disseminated to medical educators, health policymakers, and youth advocacy groups in Niger to inform strategic planning and dialogue. Youth perspectives, medical futures, Niger, qualitative research, healthcare development, Africa This protocol provides a structured methodological framework for an original study that centres the voices of African youth in discourses on the future of medicine.