Strategies to Ensure Effective Implementation of Peer Mentoring for Research

Exposure to research is an integral and indispensable component of medical training and all medical colleges must take the initiative to provide an adequate number of opportunities to improve their skills. Acknowledging the importance of research in the delivery of medical education, students have been encouraged to participate in various research activities under the guidance of teachers. As the name suggests, peer mentoring is an initiative to promote research activities in the institution, wherein one of the students is assigned with the role of a mentor, and s/he guides and supports students from the same professional phase in various research-related activities. The process of implementation of peer mentoring in research is a challenging one and it must be carefully planned to effectively respond to the potential concerns. In conclusion, peer mentoring for research-related activities is expected to benefit students as well as the institution. Considering the extent of challenges involved related to the curriculum, administrators, mentors, and mentees, there is an immense need to be engaged in proactive planning, frame clear guidelines, and provide institutional support to keep the initiative beneficial and sustainable for all participants.