Exploring the impact of the Global Community-Based Education (G-CBE) program at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Rwanda: insights from the inaugural cohort

Community-Based Education (CBE) integrates practical experiences within community settings to deepen students' understanding of real-world issues. In July 2023, the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) launched the Global Community-Based Education (G-CBE) program, designed to immerse international students in diverse settings across Rwanda and enhance their grasp of social determinants of health, community health and social medicine. This study explores the experiences and perceptions of the first cohort of the G-CBE program at UGHE. It aims to evaluate how the program influenced the learning, career development, and understanding of community health for the 10 participating students. Qualitative methods were employed, including 10 in-depth interviews (IDIs) to gather insights into the participants' experiences and the perceived benefits of the G-CBE program. Students reported gaining a comprehensive understanding of social determinants of health, developing a strong appreciation for community-driven approaches, and acquiring practical skills through hands-on experiences. The program also broadened their global health perspective and heightened their awareness of health inequities. The findings underscore the significance of immersive community-based learning in global health education. The students' experiences will inform ongoing improvements to the G-CBE program, enhancing its effectiveness in preparing future health professionals.