Abstract Overview:
Strengthening midwifery education is critical to building a workforce capable of providing high-quality care. Thus, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Evangelical University of Africa has introduced a bachelor’s programme in midwifery education integrating two profiles: person-centred care and simulation-based learning.

Aims and Objectives:
To identify mechanisms impacting the implementation of two profiles within a midwifery education programme in the DRC: a person-centered care model and strengthened simulation-based learning, both on campus and in clinical practice.

Methods:
A qualitative process evaluation with an exploratory design was conducted, involving four focus group interviews with 29 midwifery students. Data were analyzed using deductive and inductive content analysis, guided by an evaluation framework focusing on mechanisms of impact.

Results:
Person-centred care and simulation-based learning demonstrated a synergistic effect, each reinforcing the other. Simulation-based learning enhanced students’ confidence, improving communication skills, fostering awareness of women’s active role in their care, thereby facilitating the adoption of person-centred care. In turn, person-centred care strengthened the relevance of simulation-based exercises, making them more reflective of clinical interactions and improving students' ability to provide individualized care. Enablers of successful implementation included adequate staffing, skilled faculty providing continuous capacity building, safe learning environment, and access to sufficient equipment. While cultural norms initially posed challenges, resistance decreased as the benefits became evident. Over time, the integration of the profiles contributed to new routines in childbirth care, improving student learning and satisfaction in providing care.

Conclusion:
Integrating person-centred care into midwifery education enhanced patient-midwife communication and satisfaction, while simulation-based learning strengthened the link between theory and practice, increasing student confidence. Demonstrated synergy between the profiles highlights potential for broader impact. To advance maternal and newborn health outcomes globally, it can be argued that international standards integrating simulation-based learning and person-centred care into midwifery education in academic and clinical settings are needed.