Enhancing clinical competencies through AI-assisted simulation: an african perspective

Abstract The integration of clinical simulation and artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare education presents a transformative opportunity to enhance the training of health professionals in Africa. Despite common misconceptions that these technologies might replace human caregivers or diminish the quality of patient interactions, evidence from studies involving nursing and midwifery students shows that AI and simulation serve to reinforce clinical skills and communication. High-fidelity simulation combined with AI tools such as real-time feedback and guided debriefings provides learners with a safe and interactive environment to practice complex clinical scenarios, including eclampsia and acute respiratory distress. This approach not only improves technical competencies but also strengthens critical thinking, confidence, and collaboration among students while reducing stress levels. For sustainable implementation, it is essential to adopt ethical frameworks, provide training for educators, and ensure human oversight remains central. Overall, AI-assisted simulation represents a promising pedagogical innovation to address the specific challenges of healthcare education in Africa, fostering skill development without compromising the human dimension of care.