‘Feeling part of a network of learning in health promotion’: An evaluation of a postgraduate peer-mentoring scheme in Ghana

Abstract

ABSTRACTMuch is known about the value of peer mentoring in under-graduate programmes; however, little has been published about this in the context of transition into postgraduate education, particularly in low-middle income countries. This paper reports on an evaluation of peer mentoring on an MSc Public Health Promotion programme delivered in Ghana. Qualitative methods were used to elicit the experiences of thirty-five students using methods including focus group discussions that involved guided reflection. Data were analysed using a framework adapted from Kram’s Model of Mentoring. Several key themes were identified: practical benefit; social benefit and emotional benefit; future benefit; and facilitating factors and challenges. The peer-mentoring scheme evaluated well benefiting both mentees and mentors. More importantly for Ghana, the relationships that developed between the mentees and mentors bode well for building a community of experts in health promotion that is key to tackling Ghana’s health and development agenda.