SQU study highlights rise of male nurses in Oman

MUSCAT: A recent study conducted by Sultan Qaboos University has highlighted the experiences of Omani male nursing students, affirming that nursing is a deeply humane profession worthy of pride despite prevailing perceptions that it is predominantly female. The research sheds light on the motivations, challenges and aspirations of this underrepresented group within Oman’s healthcare education system.
Nursing remains a cornerstone of the healthcare system, playing a central role in patient care and the promotion of public health. However, in many cultures, the profession continues to be viewed through a gendered lens, often limiting the visibility and participation of men. In Oman, male nursing students represent a clear minority, encountering a range of experiences that merit closer examination.
Dr Aziza bint Saleh al Sawafi from the College of Nursing at Sultan Qaboos University, together with her research team, conducted a qualitative descriptive study to explore these dynamics. The study was based on semi-structured interviews with 14 male nursing students at the university, providing valuable insights into their lived experiences and the pathways they navigate throughout their academic and professional journeys. The findings were organised into four principal themes.
The first theme, “Why Nursing?”, revealed that students’ motivations extended beyond job security or family influence. Many participants expressed a strong desire to serve others, alongside inspiration drawn from the efforts of nurses during the Covid-19 pandemic. These factors contributed to a growing conviction that nursing is a noble and meaningful profession.
The second theme, “From Doubt to Empowerment”, traced a transformative journey. Students initially reported feelings of hesitation and uncertainty, often shaped by societal perceptions. Over time, however, practical training and academic support helped to strengthen their confidence and reshape their professional identity, leading to a deeper appreciation of their role in healthcare.
The third theme, “Beyond Bias”, highlighted the real challenges faced by participants, including social stigma and instances of discrimination during clinical training. While such experiences were demanding, they also served to reinforce students’ resilience and determination to prove their competence within the field.
The fourth and final theme, “How Can You Support Us?”, reflected the students’ calls for sustained academic and psychological support, as well as institutional initiatives to enhance their integration within the educational environment. Participants also emphasised the importance of public awareness campaigns to challenge prevailing stereotypes and advocated for greater involvement in outreach activities that highlight the contributions of male nurses to society.
The study concludes that the experiences of male nursing students in Oman present an opportunity to foster a more inclusive and equitable professional identity. It recommends the development of university policies that encourage diversity, the provision of targeted mentoring platforms and the implementation of awareness campaigns aimed at reshaping societal perceptions of nursing. Such measures are seen as essential to ensuring a sustainable healthcare sector capable of meeting community needs with both efficiency and compassion.