The development of a framework to align theory and practice to improve midwifery education in the Western Cape

Abstract

Midwives play a critical role in the care of pregnant women from the first antenatal visit, through to the delivery and the postpartum period. The education of midwives has however become a concern, not only in South Africa but in many countries for a multitude of reasons. Evidence suggests that South Africa is devoted to reducing the maternal mortality rates as reflected in the Negotiated Service Delivery Agreement, signed in 2010, which identifies reductions in maternal and child/neonatal mortality rates as key strategic outcomes for the South African Health sector. However, by 2015 the set Millennium Development goals, specifically goal 4 (to reduce child mortality) and 5 (to improve maternal health) were not met and were replaced by Sustainable Development Goals, specifically goal 3 (to ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all at all stages). This lag in meeting the indicators for improving the health of the population is associated in some respects to the education and training of health professionals.