JOURNEY OF EDUCATIONAL LEADERS IN BRINGING CURRICULAR REFORM IN MEDICAL EDUCATION IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Reforms in medical school need strong leadership to create an environment for effective adaptation. The aim of this study was to identify the challenges faced and strategies used by educational leaders during their journey of bringing the curricular reform at their respective institutions. Methods: This qualitative study was carried out across four institutes in Pakistan. Purposive sampling technique was used, and 14 medical educationists involved in curricular reforms participated. In depth semi structured interviews were conducted to explore the journey of educational leaders, the medical educationists who were involved in guiding the faculty in improving the educational processes in the institutes. Thematic analysis of the interviews was done. Results: The major challenges identified can be broadly grouped into two categories: student and faculty related. The underlying common principle in the journey of leaders was to remain aware of the emerging situations and take decisions accordingly. Conclusion: As leaders navigating the change, they must be prepared for the uncertainty and unexpected events and adapt themselves to the changing environment, and deal with perseverance.

Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):53–7