Abuja: Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, alongside First Ladies of Africa and Asia, commemorated International Women's Day 2026 by reaffirming their commitment to empowering women and girls. The collaboration, which includes partnerships with various Ministries of Health, Education, Communication, and Gender, highlighted over 14 years of impactful development programs.
According to African Press Organization, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the retired CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasized that their efforts to empower women and girls extend beyond a single day. The programs, which have been celebrated for 14 years, include More Than a Mother, Merck Foundation Scholarships Program, Educating Linda, and STEM Program.
Dr. Kelej conveyed her wishes for women and girls globally, encouraging them to break barriers and fulfill their potential. The More Than a Mother initiative focuses on empowering infertile and childless women by providing access to information, education, and healthcare.
Merck Foundation has transformed patient care across Africa, Asia, and beyond by offering over 2500 scholarships in 44 medical specialties. Nearly half of these scholarships have been awarded to women medical graduates, empowering them to become future leaders in healthcare. Additionally, more than 770 scholarships have been allocated to young healthcare providers, focusing on advancing women's health.
Education is a central pillar of Merck Foundation's mission. Through the Educating Linda program, over 1200 scholarships have been granted to underprivileged African schoolgirls, enabling them to complete their education. The foundation also supports women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards.
In collaboration with the First Ladies of Africa and Asia, Merck Foundation announces annual awards in media, song, film, and fashion to raise awareness about women empowerment and related themes such as breaking infertility stigma and ending gender-based violence.
Merck Foundation also utilizes creative initiatives to highlight the importance of girls' education, including children's storybooks, animation films, and awareness songs. The Our Africa by Merck Foundation TV program features episodes dedicated to supporting girl education.
For more information, the foundation provides access to educational episodes, storybooks, animation films, and songs that promote women empowerment and girl education through various digital platforms.