Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare (Oct 2023)
A Tracer Study of Psychosocial Counselling Graduates Working in Different Healthcare Facilities Across Malawi
Abstract
Teddie Chima,1 Esmie Mkwinda,2 Stephen Kumwenda,3 Tendai Machaya4 1Library, Research and Information Resource Centre, Saint John of God College of Health Sciences, Mzuzu, Malawi; 2Nursing Department, Saint John of God College of Health Sciences, Mzuzu, Malawi; 3Monitoring and Evaluation Department, Saint John of God College of Health Sciences, Mzuzu, Malawi; 4Psychosocial Counselling Department, Saint John of God College of Health Sciences, Mzuzu, MalawiCorrespondence: Teddie Chima, Library, Research and Information Resource Centre, Saint John of God College of Health Sciences, P. O. Box 744, Mzuzu, Malawi, Tel +265884710944 ; +265991710944, Email [email protected]: Graduate Tracer Studies plays a key role in informing higher education institutions worldwide about the effectiveness of their programs and preparing graduates for the job market. The study aimed to trace its psychosocial counselling graduates working in different healthcare facilities across Malawi.Methods: The tracer study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design where the quantitative research method, specifically a survey was used. Data was gathered from Psychosocial counselling graduates of Saint John of God College of Health Sciences using a questionnaire. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).Results: Out of 123 participants, 72 responded, yielding a response rate of 59%. Of these, there were 40 (55.6%) females and 32 (44.4%) males. Results indicated strong belief among participants that the program provided them with valuable skills. The majority of graduates reported successful employment outcomes, with an impressive 62 (86.1%) securing jobs, often within a short period. Many participants effectively utilized the knowledge and skills acquired during the program within their workplace settings. However, a subset of graduates faced challenges in applying their training. Recommendations for program improvement included the addition of courses such as Project Management and Monitoring and Evaluation. The identified key challenges encompassed low staffing levels and limited resources.Conclusion: The study confirms program effectiveness based on positive outcomes reported by graduates in job relevance, skill development, and knowledge use. Addressing identified gaps and implementing recommended improvements can enhance graduates’ employability, meet market demands, and improve the psychosocial counselling health sector in Malawi. The study recommends that the College should consider collaborating with industry partners, monitoring employment outcomes, and proactively adapting the curriculum is vital for program success and professional development.Keywords: graduate tracer study, Saint John of God College of Health Sciences, higher education, psychotherapy, alumni, Malawi
