ADVANCING MIDWIFERY EXPERTISE THROUGH VIRTUAL LEARNING AND MENTORSHIP
The Digital Doula Programme (DDP) is an innovative online mentorship initiative designed to support the professional growth of midwifery practitioners. The programme combines structured mentorship, virtual learning technologies, and simulation-based training to guide participants from novice to expert, based on Benner’s Five Stages of Proficiency.
Aligned with the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) philosophy and model of care, and the 2024 essential competencies for midwifery practice, the DDP provides a flexible, accessible, and cost-effective alternative to traditional learning pathways.
WHY JOIN THE DIGITAL DOULA PROGRAMME?
Well-structured mentorship fosters clinical confidence, leadership, and lifelong learning.
The Digital Doula Programme offers midwives the opportunity to:
- Build expertise through guided learning
- Develop professional networks and peer support systems
- Strengthen resilience and teamwork
- Contribute meaningfully to maternal and neonatal health outcomes
PROGRAMME AIMS
- Strengthen midwifery knowledge and clinical skills
- Promote professional development through mentorship
- Enhance quality of maternal and newborn care
- Equip practitioners to meet 21st-century healthcare challenges
- Contribute to reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates
KEY FEATURES
- Competency-based education model
- Basic and emergency obstetric skills training
- Virtual and simulation-based learning methods
- Culturally sensitive and respectful maternity care practices
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
THIS PROGRAMME IS IDEAL FOR:
- Early-career and practicing midwives
- Midwifery educators and clinical mentors
- Healthcare professionals aiming to strengthen maternal care capacity
The Programme Lead
Dr Hafsa Amod
Dr Hafsa Amod is the primary investigator of this research project. She is a senior lecturer at the School of Nursing and the NuMIQ research unit at the North-West University. This research will further draw on the expertise of other researchers with specific skills as needed, including midwifery clinical skills, mentorship, and leadership.