• Rehana Rehman, Rahila Ali, Saira Khalid, and Tazeen Saeed Ali.
• Rehana Rehman, Professor, Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi. Pakistan.
• Pak J Med Sci. 2023 Sep 1; 39 (5): 126812741268-1274.

Background & ObjectiveFaculty members require mentoring in all stages of their professional development. Aga Khan University (AKU) has initiated mentorship programs for students and faculty at AKU Medical College (AKU- MC) and AKU School of Nursing and Midwifery (AKU-SONAM). This study aimed to explore perceptions of mentors, mentees, administrators (chairs, co-chairs, founder members and coordinators of the mentoring program) and leadership and further investigate the strengths and challenges faced by 'Faculty Mentorship Program' at AKU- MC.MethodsWe conducted a qualitative exploratory study from February till December 2021 after approval from AKU using purposive criterion sampling. Mentors, mentees, administrators and dean of AKU- MC were included in the study. The interview guide was developed, validated and reviewed by experts. After piloting, four focused group discussions and 8 in-depth interviews were conducted in AKU- MC.ResultsThe findings described the transition from informal to formal mentorship, identified challenges faced by mentors and mentees and suggested the role of leadership / administrators. The themes identified were "Continuous improvement of mentoring practices", "Building strong foundations for mentoring relationships", and "Growth and development through challenging experiences".ConclusionThe faculty mentorship program at AKU-MC was in line with the goals and vision of the institution. All participants identified the need of additional resources, administrative support, rewards, incentives and recognition of mentors for sustainability of the program.Copyright: © Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences.

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