The Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, has marked the International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2026 by reinforcing its long-standing commitment to advancing women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) across Africa. The initiative is being carried out in partnership with African First Ladies, ministries of health, education, gender, information, and academic institutions.
Scholarships Driving Gender Equity in Science
According to Rasha Kelej, CEO of the foundation, the organisation continues to prioritise specialised medical training for African women through its Scholarship Program while recognising outstanding researchers via the MARS Awards.
The foundation has provided more than 2,500 scholarships to healthcare professionals across 52 countries, covering 44 underserved medical specialties. Nearly 1,200 of these scholarships have gone to women medical graduates, helping address gender disparities in scientific and medical leadership.
Kelej highlighted that close to half of all scholarships awarded so far have supported women healthcare professionals, calling this a meaningful step toward closing the gender gap in science and strengthening women’s leadership in STEM fields.
MARS Awards Recognise African Research Excellence
The annual MARS Awards continue to spotlight outstanding African women researchers and young scientists. The initiative aims to build research capacity, promote innovation, and encourage contributions to science and healthcare development across the continent.
A recent virtual awards ceremony was hosted with partners including the Africa Reproductive Care Society and Manipal University, with a strong focus on scientific research related to women’s health, reproductive care, and fertility. Applications for the 2026 awards are now open.
Education at the Core of Women’s Empowerment
Beyond higher education and research, the foundation continues to invest in girls’ basic education through its Educating Linda programme. Working alongside African First Ladies, the initiative has delivered over 1,200 annual scholarships to underprivileged African schoolgirls across 19 countries, helping them stay in school and reach their potential.
To further raise awareness, the foundation uses creative storytelling tools such as children’s books, animation films, music projects, and television programming to highlight the importance of educating girls and empowering young women.
Focus on Health, Science, and Social Impact
Established in 2017, the Merck Foundation focuses on improving access to quality healthcare, building medical research capacity, and empowering women and youth through science and education. While it collaborates with governments and institutions, the organisation maintains a strictly non-political stance, concentrating solely on humanitarian and social development goals.
As global attention turns once again to women in science, the foundation’s ongoing initiatives signal a sustained effort to ensure African women and girls have greater access to education, research opportunities, and leadership roles in STEM.
