Perceived Drivers Of Gender Equity In Global Surgery Among Female Healthcare Students In Kenya
Surgical Work & Equity Lab
Research & Policy
Journal of Global Surgery (ONE), International Conference on Innovation in Global Surgery, 2025 — Jill Mayunga, Fridah Bosire
Background
Despite advancements in surgical education, Kenya only has 2.35 surgeons per 100,000 people. This study set out to determine the factors that promote surgical specialisation among female students.
Methods
A cross sectional study was conducted and data was collected using Google forms distributed to attendees of a 'Women in surgery' event.
Results
When 86 respondents were asked about what initiatives they thought were essential in promoting gender equity, the majority (51.2%) felt mentorship programs were the most essential.
Conclusion
Despite growing interest in surgery among female medical trainees, barriers persist. Mentorship programs, equitable leadership, policy reforms and advocacy campaigns play a role in promoting equity.
DOI: 10.52648/ICIGS.1003_91