Analysing the Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and Associated Factors among Final-Year Students at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo
Ossinga Bassandja *
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kayembe Tshilumba
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Ngandu Wa Ngandu
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Atoba Bokele
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Jakwonga Moro
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kingombe Museme
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Darabu Sakina
Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kindu, Kindu, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Wiyaka Etuka
Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Kisangani (ISTM-Kisangani), Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Kalaki Koposi
Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Kisangani (ISTM-Kisangani), Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Batina Agasa
Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: The integration of ICT into medical education in the DRC is hampered by structural challenges. This study aimed to analyze the use of ICT and its associated factors among final-year students at the University of Kisangani (UNIKIS), where data is undocumented.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 145 final-year students at UNIKIS (response rate of 97.3%) using a self-administered questionnaire. Intensive ICT use (≥2 hours/day) was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression to identify associated factors (p<0.05).
Results: The majority of students (78.6%) used ICT daily (average of 2.2 hours/day), mainly via smartphone (93.4%). The main activities included documentary research and the use of AI tools. Although 93.1% considered ICT essential, the major obstacles were cost (84.1%) and infrastructure (76.6%). In multivariate analysis, higher socioeconomic status (AOR=3.2), prior computer training (AOR=2.7), and home Wi-Fi access (AOR=2.4) were independently associated with intensive use.
Discussion: High ICT usage is consistent with global trends, as are the structural and economic barriers identified, which are typical of countries with limited resources. Associated factors (socioeconomic status, education) confirm the role of financial resources and digital skills. Recommendations for improving infrastructure and reducing costs are in line with international literature on ensuring digital equity.
Keywords: Information and communication technologies (ICT), final-year students, DRC, medicine, pharmacy