Practicing midwives' perceptions of their training program in Morocco: A cross-sectional study

Midwifery education is essential for ensuring quality maternal and neonatal care. In Morocco, the transition from the former training system (IFCS) to the current one (ISPITS) has raised concerns about the alignment between academic preparation and clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate Moroccan midwives’ perceptions of their initial training and to compare the quality of education under both systems. A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among 635 midwives who graduated between 1997 and 2021. A standardized questionnaire, adapted from the AAMC Graduate Questionnaire, assessed satisfaction with theoretical and clinical training. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and chi-square tests (p < 0.05). Overall, 66.4% of respondents expressed general satisfaction. While educational objectives and theory-practice coherence were rated positively (79.3% and 82.7%, respectively), the theoretical workload was often deemed excessive relative to available time (47.4%). IFCS graduates rated their training more favorably than ISPITS graduates in terms of content coherence and overall satisfaction. Courses in reproductive health were best evaluated, whereas research methodology, nutrition, and medical-surgical pathology were identified as weak areas. Obstetric internships were the most valued, while placements in resuscitation, neonatology, and surgery received lower ratings. Only 31.8% would choose the midwifery profession again. These findings underscore moderate satisfaction with initial midwifery training in Morocco and reveal significant gaps in theoretical content and clinical preparation, particularly in the ISPITS system. Curriculum revision and enhanced clinical training are needed to better meet professional demands.