A Study of the Influence and Effectiveness of an Innovative Gharana Mentorship House System on Undergraduate Medical Students

Abstract

Background: Mentorship is an important educational strategy to foster academic success, personal wellbeing and professional development in undergraduate medical students. As group mentoring holds immense potential in medical education, the Gharana Mentorship House System, inspired by house mentorship models in schools, was implemented for the first time at Gujarat Adani Institute of Medical Sciences (GAIMS), Bhuj, India, to enhance mentorship for undergraduate students. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of a new concept of Gharana mentorship house system program for undergraduate students at GAIMS, Bhuj. Objectives: a) To assess the perception of mentees and mentors about the program. B) To assess academic performance and attendance of students to measure effectiveness of Gharana Program. C) To identify the strengths and challenges of this mentorship program

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at GAIMS where the Gharana Mentorship House system was introduced. Data was collected from volunteer mentors and mentees using validated semi structured Google questionnaires containing both open and closed ended questions. Attendance records and marks obtained in exams were procured from academic records

Results: 230 mentees and 30 mentors volunteered to participate in the study. Quantitative analysis revealed statistically significant association in improvement of students’ attendance and academic performance (p < 0.0001). Quantitative analysis of perception of both mentors and mentees was positive. Mentees expressed that this program had provided them with both professional and personal support. Most mentors agreed that the program was running as planned, there was no additional burden on them, and that they were motivated to volunteer for future mentoring. Qualitative themes highlighted the challenges, valuable insights and experiences of mentors from the mentor mentee relationship

Conclusion: The Gharana Mentorship House System is an innovative and effective model of mentorship which combines traditional values with modern concepts to enhance mentorship quality and student outcomes in undergraduate medical education.