We at Merck Foundation mark ‘International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2024’ by supporting and empowering women in the areas of Science and Technology. Despite the significant strides women have made in their careers, there remains a notable underrepresentation in these areas. We aim to narrow the gender inequality gap and empower women to participate equally in these areas of science and technology.
In partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, we have been transforming the patient care landscape in Africa by providing medical training to young doctors in many critical medical specialties. Out of the total 1700 scholarships provided, more than 780 scholarships were for women medical graduates. This is close to 45% of the total Merck Foundation Alumni, which is a great milestone for us. Aditionally, we have contributed to the future of 425 of girls by providing scholarships to continue their education and also providing essential school items for thousands of school girls through our “Educating Linda” program in many African countries such as Burundi, Malawi, Ghana, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger and more.
I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for our prestigious Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024. ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Infertility & Reproductive Care’ will be the key focus this year too. Eventually, through these awards, Merck Foundation aims to empower Women Researchers and young African Researchers to strengthen the important role research plays towards contributing to public health thus improving healthcare capacity with special focus on women health, infertility and reproductive health in Africa.
MARS 2024 will have scientific support from African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC); African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS); and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), India.
Details for MARS AWARDS 2024
– Abstracts are invited from final year PhD students, young investigators involved in research and Medical Doctors in Postgraduate Medical Fellowship program related to either of the following topics:
1) Women Health
2) Infertility and Reproductive Care
Applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities, although collaboration within Africa as well as outside is also welcome.
Last Date of Submission:
Applications can be submitted till 30th June 2024
How to apply:
Apply online here: https://merck-foundation.com/Merck-Foundation-Africa-Research-Summit-Application-Form
Alternatively, Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com
Along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.
Entries are invited under the below categories:
Best African Women Researchers
Best African Young Researcher
The Winners receive a 3-month Research Training scholarship in India.
Moreover, we have benefitted 1000’s of girls through our awareness campaign which includes releasing many inspiring children’s storybooks, animation films and songs to support girl education and end child marriage.
Kind Regards,
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej,
CEO of Merck Foundation
Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit -MARS
