Youth Engagement in Medical Practice and Policy: A Togolese Case Study

Youth engagement in African medical systems is important for sustainable development. In Togo, which has a young population, the integration of young medical professionals into practice and policy-making is not well understood. This paper examines the role of youth within the country's medical sector. This paper analyses the involvement of young medical professionals in clinical practice and health policy formulation in Togo. It aims to map pathways for youth participation, identify key barriers and enablers, and assess the perceived impact of their engagement on the health system. The study uses a qualitative, exploratory case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with young doctors, medical students, and senior health policymakers. Documentary analysis of relevant national policies and professional body reports was also undertaken. As a working paper, empirical results are preliminary. Initial thematic analysis indicates a strong desire among young professionals for greater policy influence, alongside perceived systemic barriers from hierarchical structures. A prominent theme was advocacy for formalised mentorship programmes to bridge experience gaps. Preliminary analysis suggests that while young medical professionals in Togo are active in clinical practice, their integration into health policy processes is often informal and limited. Strategic engagement of this group appears important for addressing health challenges and ensuring system resilience. Key recommendations are to establish formal youth advisory structures within the Ministry of Health and medical associations, integrate health policy training into medical education curricula, and create structured national mentorship schemes linking junior and senior professionals. Youth engagement, Medical workforce, Health policy, Togo, Africa, Medical education, Health systems This working paper provides a foundational analysis of youth involvement in Togo's medical sector, offering insights for policymakers and medical associations seeking to harness this potential.