Exploring the effects of a lack of pocketmoney onthe learning activities of undergraduate health sciences students in their clinical year

Background In Ethiopia, there is little understanding of students’ university expenses and how the lack of pocket money affects undergraduate learning. This is particularly evident for undergraduate health sciences students that need additional money when they start their clinical placement. Objectives We aimed to explore the economic challenges that clinical year undergraduate health sciences students face with limited pocket money, as well as how students perceive these limited funds as affecting their learning activities and their ability to meet challenges. Methods This descriptive qualitative study was conducted at the Department of Medical Radiology Technology (MRT), College of Health Sciences (CHS) at Addis Ababa University (AAU). Ten participants were recruited through purposive and snowball methods, and semi-structured interviews were conducted between January 28, 2019 and February 1, 2019. The semi-structured questions explored participants’ experiences and perceptions regarding the challenges of a lack of pocket money and its impacts on their learning activities. Their reaction to financial challenges was also assessed. Results Four themes that are related to impact of lack of money on learning activities emerged from the interviews and they revolved around the students’ challenges in obtaining pocket money, their difficulty in affording daily needs, their self-management and their ability to have an adequate social life. Conclusion Based on our data, the underlying causes that lead students to face financial hardships can be solved by increasing public awareness of university expenses, clarifying the cost sharing system to the public, redesigning the cost sharing policy, and improving university services In addition, training students self-management and pocket money management, as well giving providing adequate transportation services, cash-money, and consultations for students during clinical placement.