BACKGROUND:
Nigeria accounted for the highest number of maternal deaths globally in 2023. In response, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is advancing a comprehensive strategy to sustainably reduce maternal and newborn mortality by strengthening midwifery education and integrating essential maternal and newborn health (MNH) content. Digital learning offers a scalable, sustainable way to enhance midwifery education and expand access to high-quality, equitable training, critical to achieving one million more competent midwives

OBJECTIVES:
To explore the perceptions of educators, preceptors, and students on the integration and use of digital technology in midwifery education

METHODS:
As part of formative research to strengthen midwifery education in 19 midwifery institutions in Nigeria, a mixed methods study was carried out. Quantitative data was collected through a questionnaire administered on Redcap and descriptive analysis carried out in STATA. Qualitative data was collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, analysed using thematic analysis

RESULTS:
Midwifery educators, preceptors and students expressed a willingness to utilise digital resources in midwifery education and training. Challenges hindering integration and use of digital resources in midwifery education were noted such as unreliable power supply, high internet costs and lack of digital resources. 42% of midwifery institutions had libraries or computer labs and 26% had internet access. Out of the 19 midwifery institutions, One had a video projector and one used a learning management system (Moodle). The use of visual aids during teaching sessions was limited (46%)

CONCLUSIONS:
Upgrading midwifery education infrastructure and incorporating digital learning initiatives can foster a skilled workforce capable of delivering high quality care to meet national priorities of improvements in maternal health

KEY MESSAGE:
To train one million more competent midwives, digital learning may be leveraged to boost access to high-quality midwifery education. Without the right infrastructure and investment, the potential will remain out of reach Education - digital/simulation