FACTORS FACILITATING EFFECTIVE PEER MENTORSHIP PROGRAMMES AMONG MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCE STUDENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

This systematic review synthesizes evidence from peer-reviewed studies to identify factors that facilitate effective mentorship programmes in nursing education, examine challenges hindering their implementation, and elicit suggestions for improvement. Drawing from a comprehensive search of databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science, 15 studies published between 2010 and 2024 were included after applying PRISMA guidelines and quality appraisal using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Key facilitating factors included structured programme design, mentor training, and institutional support, while challenges encompassed time constraints, mismatched mentor-mentee pairs, and resource limitations. Suggestions for enhancement emphasised integration of technology, ongoing evaluation, and cultural adaptation. These findings underscore the need for tailored mentorship frameworks to enhance nursing students' wellbeing and academic performance. The review highlights gaps in low-resource settings like Nigeria and recommends policy reforms for standardised programmes.