Exploring the Impact of Mentorship on Clinical Officer Trainees’ Learning Experiences during Clinical Placements in Rwanda

Abstract Background Clinical Officers play a critical role in healthcare delivery in Rwanda, particularly in resource-limited settings. Despite their importance, their clinical training is often constrained by inadequate mentorship during clinical placements. Objective This study explored the influence of mentorship on the learning experiences of Clinical Officer trainees during clinical placements. Methods A qualitative descriptive design was employed, using online self-administered questionnaires. Twenty-eight participants were recruited, comprising 18 trainees and 10 trainers/mentors from the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB) and Rango Health Center. Data were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework. Results Two overarching themes were identified: the supportive role of mentorship in strengthening clinical learning [1], and trainees’ experiences and challenges during placements [2]. Effective mentorship was associated with enhanced clinical competence, confidence, and professional development, while inconsistent mentorship limited skill acquisition and overall learning outcomes. Conclusion Structured mentorship is vital for optimizing the training and professional growth of Clinical Officer trainees. The study recommends the development of institutionalized mentorship frameworks to improve the quality and consistency of clinical training.