Since the reform of midwifery training towards a degree course, the situation in Saxony has improved significantly. "Every woman looking for a midwife can currently find one," said Stephanie Hahn-Schaffarczyk, Chairwoman of the Saxon Midwives' Association, when asked. However, this is a snapshot in time because the so-called baby boomer generation will soon be leaving. It is important to take countermeasures in good time.
A good opportunity is offered by an adaptation course for midwives from third countries that has now been launched at the University of Leipzig. The pilot project, supported by the Saxon Ministry of Health, is intended to help midwives from third countries to have their training recognized in Germany.
"The course content in other countries differs somewhat from the teaching at German universities. And what is then missing is made up for during the course," explained Hahn-Schaffarczyk. Among other things, the association provides support in the search for clinics for the practical training of applicants. The first course starts this Monday with participants from Ukraine, Serbia, Kosovo and Iran.
The "Midwifery" course has been available in Leipzig and Dresden since 2021. This consists of a three to four-year bachelor's degree course with a high practical component and a state final examination. This enables more than 50 new midwives to gain their professional license in Saxony every year. According to the association, there are currently around 1,000 midwives working in the state.
Copyright 2025, dpa (www.dpa.de). All rights reserved
