LANGUAGE IN INDIA

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Volume 26:2 February 2026
ISSN 1930-2940

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Challenges Faced by Students of Medicine in Learning Medical English and Strategies for Overcoming Them Effectively

Muhammad Naeem Yaqubi
Ali Mohammad Hekmat
Mohammadullah Hussiani
Mohammad Mustafa Kabmal &
Mohammad Tamim Aslampoor

Abstract

Medical English (ME) serves as the backbone of medical education, particularly for students from non-English-speaking nations. This study explores the challenges Afghan medical students face in learning Medical English and proposes effective strategies to overcome these barriers. It highlights the critical role of Medical English (ME) in achieving academic excellence, enhancing patient communication, and accessing international medical research literature. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study addresses key research questions, including the primary challenges faced by students, the impact of these challenges on academic and clinical performance, and the effectiveness of strategies such as flashcards, peer discussions, and technology integration. The findings underscore the importance of adopting innovative, student-centered approaches to Medical English (ME) education, offering valuable insights for curriculum development and teaching methodologies in Afghanistan and similar contexts.

Keywords:Medical English, Challenges, Strategies, Afghan Medical Students, Mixed-Methods, Language Proficiency

Introduction

The role of Medical English (ME) in Afghanistan Medical Universities and Medical Faculties is undeniably crucial. As the international lingua franca of medical research, literature, and clinical communication, English serves as a gateway to global medical knowledge and collaboration. However, for Afghan medical students, mastering ME presents significant challenges. These challenges are exacerbated by linguistic disparities between English and local languages such as Dari and Pashto, the complexity of medical terminology, and limited opportunities for English-language practice in clinical and academic settings.

The differences in grammatical structures, vocabulary, and phonetics between English and Afghanistan's native languages create a sudden learning curve for students. Additionally, the highly specialized nature of medical terminology further compounds these difficulties, requiring not only language proficiency but also conceptual understanding. Moreover, the lack of immersive English-language environments in clinical training limits students' ability to practice and apply their skills in real-world scenarios, hindering their confidence and competence. While these challenges are well-documented in general contexts, there is a lack of research addressing the unique socio-cultural and educational context of Afghan medical students. This study seeks to fill this gap by identifying the specific challenges Afghan students face in learning ME and proposing tailored strategies to address these impediments. By exploring innovative teaching methodologies, enhancing access to English-language medical resources, and creating opportunities for practical application, we aim to empower Afghan medical students to overcome these barriers. Ultimately, improving proficiency in ME will not only enhance individual academic and professional outcomes but also contribute to the broader advancement of Afghanistan's healthcare system.

This is only the beginning part of the article. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE IN PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION.

Muhammad Naeem Yaqubi
Department of English Language
Kabul University of Medical Sciences "Abu Ali Sina".
m.naeemyaqubi1988@gmail.com

Ali Mohammad Hekmat
Department of English Language
Kabul University of Medical Sciences "Abu Ali Sina".
alihekmat125@gmail.com

Mohammadullah Hussiani
Department of English Language
Kabul University of Medical Sciences "Abu Ali Sina".

Mohammad Mustafa Kabmal
Department of English Language
Kabul University of Medical Sciences "Abu Ali Sina".
&

Mohammad Tamim Aslampoor
Department of English Language
Kabul University of Medical Sciences "Abu Ali Sina".

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