Abstract

Background: Historically, Botswana’s reliance on external medical training was inefficient, with only 10% of doctors returning to practice locally. The University of Botswana School of Medicine (UBSOM) was established in 2009 to address this "brain drain" and secure human resource sustainability. Despite producing over 400 graduates, a comprehensive analysis of their professional outcomes and systemic impact has yet to be conducted.

Objectives: This study evaluates the impact of the UBSOM program on Botswana’s Human Resources for Health (HRH) from 2009 to 2023. Specifically, it aims to determine total graduate numbers, track postgraduate/specialist completion, assess local retention rates, and map geographic (urban vs. rural) and sectoral (public vs. private) distribution.

Methods: A retrospective descriptive observational study will be conducted over seven months, utilizing secondary data from the University of Botswana Academic Services and the Botswana Health Professions Council (BHPC) registry.

Expected Impact: The findings will transition national healthcare planning from process-based metrics to outcome-based evidence. By validating the domestic training model, the study provides a framework for addressing healthcare equity in underserved rural areas and optimizing specialist retention. Furthermore, it serves as a critical performance indicator for UB’s global standing in Clinical and Health Sciences, offering a scalable model for other Sub-Saharan African nations striving for health system self-sufficiency.

Keywords: Medical Education, Human Resources for Health, Botswana, UBSOM, Physician Retention, Healthcare Equity