At Merck Foundation we observe “World Hypertension Day” by expanding access to quality and equitable care in Hypertension, Diabetes, Endocrinology and Cardiovascular preventive care, which are all co-related, by providing scholarships for young doctors across Africa and beyond. Together with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa, and partners like Ministries of Health, Medical Societies and Academia, we have till today provided more than 860 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries, of One-Year Online PG Diplomas and Two-Year Online Master’s Degrees in Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Endocrinology, Cardiology, and Obesity & Weight Management, as well as One-Year Clinical Cardiovascular Care and Clinical Diabetes Onsite Fellowship Programs in India, a special 3-month Diabetes Mastercourse in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish language. What is special about these scholarships is that they have been provided not only to doctors from capital cities, but also to those from across the country — ensuring wider geographic coverage of healthcare capacity. In total, we have provided more than 2270 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
In partnership with African First Ladies, we have released a children’s storybook and its adapted animation film “Mark’s Pressure”. I believe early education is key to building a healthier community. Through our storybook and animation film “Mark’s Pressure”, we aim to instill healthy habits in children and youth — like reducing salt and sugar, eating well, exercising, and avoiding smoking. I believe that this is the only way to prevent and manage hypertension and diabetes, which are major risk factors for many serious complications and illnesses.
Watch the “Mark’s Pressure” Animation Film here:
Click here to read “Mark’s Pressure” storybook:
I am thrilled to announce the Call for Applications for the Merck Foundation Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension” for Media, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, and Musicians/Singers from African countries. These awards aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension. I invite all talented individuals to submit their entries to submit@merck-foundation.com by 30th October 2025.
We will continue to leverage education, media, and creative arts to drive positive transformations in healthcare and community awareness, ensuring a healthier future for all.
Kind Regards,
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej,
CEO of Merck Foundation
President of “More Than a Mother” campaign
