Merck Foundation Awards 2,500+ Healthcare Scholarships, Nearly Half to Women
The Merck Foundation, in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and key ministries across health, education, gender and information, has marked the International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2026 by reinforcing its commitment to advancing women in STEM through education, research and empowerment programmes.
Led by Dr Rasha Kelej, Chief Executive Officer of Merck Foundation, the commemoration highlighted flagship initiatives including the Scholarship Programme, the MARS Awards and the Educating Linda programme, all aimed at strengthening the participation of women and girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Dr Kelej said the Foundation remains committed to bridging the gender gap in science, noting that women are still underrepresented in STEM fields despite global progress. She revealed that more than 2,500 scholarships have been awarded to healthcare professionals from 52 countries across 44 critical and underserved specialties, with nearly 1,200 specifically benefiting women medical graduates.
She added that almost 50 per cent of all scholarships have gone to women, describing this as a significant milestone in advancing women’s leadership in science and healthcare.
The MARS Awards, another key initiative, continue to recognise and empower African women and young researchers in STEM. The awards aim to strengthen research capacity and promote scientific contributions across the continent, with more than 90 winners recognised to date.
The programme has also opened applications for the 2026 edition following a recent virtual award ceremony focused on women’s health and fertility research.
Through the Educating Linda programme, Merck Foundation and First Ladies of Africa have also provided more than 1,200 annual scholarships to underprivileged schoolgirls across 19 countries, supporting access to education and long-term empowerment.
Dr Kelej emphasised that education remains the foundation of women’s empowerment and a key driver of sustainable development. She said the Foundation is working to ensure that girls not only access education but are supported to complete it and pursue careers in science and technology.
Beyond scholarships, the Foundation is using storytelling, animation films, awareness songs and media programmes such as “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” to promote girls’ education and women’s empowerment across the continent.
Featured creative works include educational songs such as Girls Can, Take Me to School by Zambian artist Wezi, Like Them, ABC 123, and Brighter Day, alongside animation films including Jackeline’s Rescue and Ride Into the Future.
Dr Kelej reiterated that the Foundation’s long-term vision is to build a strong pipeline of African women scientists and healthcare professionals who can drive innovation and improve health outcomes across the continent.
