Merck Foundation CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej with African schoolgirls, to mark International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2026.
We at Merck Foundation mark ‘International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2026’ by actively supporting and empowering women in science and technology. Although women have made remarkable progress, they are still significantly underrepresented in these fields. Our mission is to bridge this gender gap and ensure women have equal opportunities to thrive and lead in STEM.
As part of our commitment, we empower women through our Scholarship Program, which provides specialized medical scholarships to African women healthcare providers, and through the MARS Awards, which recognize outstanding African women scientists.
To date, we have provided over 2,500 scholarships to healthcare professionals from 52 countries across 44 critical and underserved specialties, including nearly 1,200 scholarships awarded to women.
Through our Educating Linda Program, in collaboration with my dear sisters, the First Ladies of Africa, we have provided more than 1,200 annual scholarships to deserving but underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, helping them complete their education and reach their potential.
In partnership with the African First Ladies, we are transforming the patient care landscape in Africa by training young doctors in many critical specialties. I am proud that almost 50% of our total scholarships have been awarded to women healthcare providers. This is a significant step toward reducing the gender gap in science and strengthening women’s leadership in STEM.
Every year, we launch the MARS Awards to encourage and recognize the ‘Best African Women Researchers’ and the ‘Best Young African Researcher’. These awards aim to empower women and youth in STEM and advance their research capacity.
We recently hosted the virtual MARS 2025 Award Ceremony, together with our partners Africa Reproductive Care Society (ARCS) and Manipal University, to honor researchers for their contributions to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa.
I am also pleased to announce the Call for Applications for the MARS Awards 2026, which will again focus on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women’s Health and Reproductive & Fertility Care.” Through these awards, we aim to further strengthen research capacity and improve public health across Africa.
Apply here for the MARS Awards 2026 here:
Additionally, our awareness campaigns—including children’s storybooks, animation films, and songs—have supported thousands of girls by promoting education and helping end child marriage. awareness songs, and dedicated episodes on this theme through “Our Africa” by Merck Foundation TV program.
Watch episodes of Our Africa, focusing on Supporting Girl Education:
Episode 2: Ending Child Marriage & Supporting Girl Education
Episode 11: Yes to Girls Education