Celebrating Women in Science: Merck Foundation’s Initiatives for 2025
The Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the charitable division of Merck KGaA Germany, has joined forces with various African First Ladies and numerous partners to commemorate the ‘International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2025’. This initiative emphasizes the need for greater representation of women in the fields of science and technology.
Bridging the Gender Gap in STEM
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation and recognized as one of Africa’s Most Influential Women, stated, “At Merck Foundation, we celebrate the International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2025 by actively supporting and empowering women in science and technology. While women have made remarkable progress, they remain underrepresented in these crucial fields. Our goal is to close this gender gap and ensure equal opportunities for women to thrive and lead.”
Launch of the MARS Awards
In an effort to recognize and uplift women’s contributions to research, Merck Foundation introduced the MARS Awards, which honor the ‘Best African Women Researchers’ and ‘Best Young African Researchers’. This initiative aims to enhance research capabilities across the STEM disciplines.
Recently, a virtual Award Ceremony was conducted, highlighting significant research work that empowers women and youth in Africa, particularly focusing on scientific research related to women’s health and reproductive care. For more details, you can access the Award Ceremony video here.
Educational Initiatives and Support for Girls
Dr. Kelej also emphasized collaborative efforts with African First Ladies to improve healthcare education, mentioning that of the over 2200 scholarships granted, about 1050 have been awarded to women medical graduates, demonstrating a near 50% representation in their alumni base. This success highlights the importance of education in empowering women.
Through their “Educating Linda” program, Merck Foundation has supported over 700 African girls with scholarships and essential educational materials across numerous countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia.
Promoting Awareness through Media
In partnership with First Ladies from various African countries, the foundation has also launched an annual media award recognizing impactful work in film, music, and fashion that promotes girl education. Additionally, Merck Foundation produces engaging children’s storybooks and animation films to raise awareness on the importance of education for girls. These resources are available in English, French, and Portuguese.
TV and Music Collaborations
Merck Foundation has introduced an ‘Our Africa’ TV program, which focuses on girl education, featuring three dedicated episodes out of fifteen. The program is co-hosted by Dr. Kelej and is broadcasted in various African nations, including Kenya and Uganda. View one of the episodes here.
The foundation also collaborates with African artists to create music that supports girl education. Notable songs include “Girls Can” by Cwesi Oteng and Irene Logan as well as “Take me to School” by Wezi. You can explore these educational songs on their respective platforms.
MARS Awards 2025: Call for Applications
The Merck Foundation is currently inviting applications for the MARS Awards 2025. This opportunity is open to final-year African PhD students and young researchers focusing on women’s health and reproductive health. Interested candidates can submit their applications until 30th June 2025.
For detailed application guidelines, visit here or send applications via email to [email protected], including your CV and abstract.
About Merck Foundation
Founded in 2017, Merck Foundation aims to enhance the health and well-being of individuals in underserved communities while empowering girls and promoting access to quality healthcare. Its initiatives focus on building research capacity and supporting women’s roles across various STEM fields.
For more updates and involvement, connect with Merck Foundation on their social platforms:
