Abu Dhabi: Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany together with the First Ladies of Africa, who are their Ambassadors, and various Ministries of Health, Education, Communication, and Gender, marked International Women's Day 2025 through their impactful development programs, continuing their 13-year legacy of empowering women and girls.

According to African Press Organization, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and recognized as one of the Most Influential African Women for six consecutive years (2019-2024), extended her wishes, saying, "Happy International Women's Day to all the remarkable women and girls around the world!" She reiterated that empowering girls and women is central to Merck Foundation's initiatives and programs. Dr. Kelej acknowledged the significant potential of women to succeed across all domains, noting the challenges they face, especially in underserved communities.

Dr. Kelej proudly highlighted that over 680 scholarships have been awarded to young doctors, focusing on advancing women's health by strengthening capacities in reproductive, sexual health, and fertility care. She emphasized the importance of education in women empowerment. Through the "Educating Linda Program," in collaboration with the First Ladies of Africa, the foundation is supporting over 700 girls by providing scholarships and essential school items across several African countries including Botswana, Burundi, Malawi, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Cabo Verde.

Furthermore, Merck Foundation has launched numerous awareness campaigns featuring inspiring songs, children's storybooks, animation films, a TV program, and awards for excellence in media, song, film, and fashion design. These initiatives aim to promote girl education today for women's empowerment tomorrow.

Merck Foundation also supports women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards. These awards honor and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, promoting research excellence. Dr. Kelej emphasized, "Our goal is to empower women and young African researchers, enhance their research capacity, and promote their contributions to STEM."