Perceptions and Challenges Faced by Undergraduate Medical Students in Studying Anatomy: A Case Study at Kampala International University – Western Campus, Uganda

Background: Proficiency in anatomy is of great importance for healthcare professionals and medical students alike, as it facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of the human body. Despite the obvious significance, medical students have often felt challenged in studying anatomy. Purpose: The studyassessed the perceptions and challenges faced by undergraduate medical students in studying anatomy at Kampala International University - Western Campus (KIU-WC) in Uganda. Materials and Methods: Employing a quantitative cross-sectional descriptive design, the study involved the administration of a standardized questionnaire to a cohort of 525 first- and second-year medical students. The questionnaire encompassed sections on student perceptions and challenges faced in studying anatomy. The commonest challenges were a limited time for revision before their mid-semester and end-of-semester examination 383/525 (73.0%), information overload 374/525 (71.2%) and a lack of suitable equipment and poor internet connection for assessing online resources 352/525 (67.1%). Conclusion: In conclusion, respondents with positive perceptions dominated with higher percentages among all ages, genders, nationalities, and religions; the commonest challenges included a limited time for revisions before their mid-semester and end-of-semester examinations, information overload, a lack of suitable equipment and poor internet connection for assessing online resources.