Overview:
In Portugal, nurses specializing in maternal health and obstetrics perform the role of midwife. Each nursing school has pedagogical autonomy and has a different study plan, despite respecting Directive 2005/36/EC.

Aims and Objectives:
This study aims to explore, through the qualitative focus group methodology, which skills should be included in future study plans in light of national and international professional, social, technological, political and economic demands, considering the current learning characteristics of generations of students.

Method:
A qualitative approach based on focus groups was adopted. There were four focus groups, with midwives from different regions and work contexts (hospitals, health centers, teaching and independent practice). Twelve midwives, aged 28-55 years, participated. The sessions were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results:
Data analysis allowed the identification of the following interconnected themes: Training must be solid, oriented towards professional practice and develop skills: Systemic, based on knowledge based on scientific evidence, international and interdisciplinary standards, promotion of autonomous learning, analysis-synthesis of knowledge, problem solving, information management and decision making; Techniques: relevance of the practical component, integration of technical and human skills, focus: on clinical simulation, digital literacy and technology; in supervised internships: promoting the ability to apply knowledge in practice, organization and planning, information management, problem solving, decision making, autonomy, adaptation to situations, creativity, initiative, project planning and management, safe and effective clinical practices, inter-multidisciplinary interventions; Communicational, cultural and ethical: empathy, active listening, cultural sensitivity, respect for autonomy and diversity, conflict management, teamwork; Political and leadership skills: health advocacy, active participation in public policies, leadership and institutional influence, interprofessional negotiation and mediation, community mobilization and awareness, ethical and critical stance.

Conclusion:
Midwifery practice in the 21st century requires robust training, diverse and well-structured skills. Understanding the interconnection between these elements is essential to promote training that values and strengthens the role of the midwife in society.