Perceived competency gaps and training needs of new veterinary graduates in Sudan: an in-depth view

Abstract

Abstract Objective To address the significant gap between formal veterinary education and the practical demands of professional practice in Sudan, this study aims to assess the training needs and workforce preparedness of new veterinary graduates. Our goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for curriculum improvement and policy reform. Materials and methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 205 veterinary graduates from the 2020–2024 cohorts across nine Sudanese faculties of veterinary medicine. A validated questionnaire (Cronbach’s α = 0.733) was used to evaluate employment outcomes, skill competencies, and training needs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate analysis. Results Significant gender disparities in employment were observed (44% of males vs. 25% of females employed; p = 0.001). Employment rates varied markedly by institution, with graduates from Al Salam University reporting 0% employment compared to 60% from Al-Butana University. While 62% of graduates felt moderately prepared for the workforce, key deficiencies were noted in surgical skills (mean = 2.9 on a 5-point scale), laboratory diagnostics (mean = 2.9 on a 5-point scale), and animal reproduction and nutrition (mean = 2.8 on a 5-point scale). University affiliation significantly influenced confidence levels (p = 0.001, η² = 0.72). Training priorities included small animal medicine (61%), surgery (58.5%), and research skills (53.7%), with access limited by financial (51%) and geographical (54%) constraints. About 27% of respondents were employed abroad (mainly in Libya and the UAE), indicating a concerning trend of brain drain. Multivariate analysis confirmed that gender, institution, and employment status significantly affected competency development (all p < 0.001). Conclusion The study highlights systemic misalignments in Sudan’s veterinary education system, with significant gaps in practical training and institutional disparities in graduate preparedness. Recommendations include curriculum standardization, targeted skill development, and gender-responsive policies to bridge the gap between education and workforce demands and enhance the veterinary sector’s contribution to animal health and food security in Sudan.