Resource Library

The Role of Alumni Associations in Strengthening Private Medical Training Institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa

The significant growth in private medical training institutions (PMTIs) throughout sub-Saharan Africa is a response to the demand for medical training and supply shortages. PMTIs can significantly increase the number of health workers needed to address the many health challenges facing sub-Saharan Africa. SHOPS studied strategies used by private, higher education institutions in the United States and elsewhere and helped PMTIs to establish alumni associations using Hubert Kairuki Memorial University in Tanzania as a start-up model. One of the greatest challenges in launching the alumni association was the creation of the alumni database. This challenge was addressed through the identification of committed and influential alumni champions. This study outlines steps that, if correctly implemented, will generate a number of benefits for PMTIs, their students, and alumni. Many of the benefits can serve to strengthen the medical profession in sub-Saharan Africa and contribute to health outcomes across the continent.