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Merck Foundation is making a transformative impact on medical education in Africa (Merck Foundation Cardiac Preventive Measures & Diabetes Training) by empowering local doctors through 925 scholarships spanning 52 countries. These scholarships include one-year Post-Graduate Diplomas, two-year Master’s degrees, and one-year Fellowship programs in Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity & Weight Management.
The initiative is part of the Foundation’s broader mission to improve healthcare access, strengthen healthcare systems, and raise public health awareness across Africa, Asia, and Latin America (Empowering Women Leaders in Healthcare). Through these programs, doctors gain advanced clinical skills, enhancing their ability to diagnose, prevent, and manage critical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Nationwide Awareness Programs for Children and Youth
In addition to scholarships, Merck Foundation has launched educational campaigns including storybooks and animation films such as “Mark’s Pressure” and “Sugar Free Jude” to encourage children and youth to adopt healthy lifestyles. These programs aim to increase public health awareness, promoting early detection, prevention, and better management of diabetes and hypertension (Merck Foundation Africa-Asia Luminary 2025).
Building Capacity for Healthcare Professionals
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasized:
“We aim to create a network of skilled specialists who can extend their expertise beyond urban centers, reaching underserved communities. Our scholarships are designed to strengthen medical education in Africa while equipping doctors to educate their patients on lifestyle changes that improve health outcomes.”
Dr. Nakigunda Kiroga, an alumnus from Tanzania, shared:
“The Merck Foundation program has enhanced my confidence in assessing cardiovascular risks and applying evidence-based interventions. I can now educate patients better, guide treatment plans, and improve overall health awareness in my community” (Merck Foundation Asia Health Initiatives & Africa Luminary).
Expanding Community Health Programs
Merck Foundation also conducts initiatives that foster public health awareness through campaigns targeting local communities. Programs like the Blue Points initiative for diabetes and hypertension aim to encourage preventive measures, reduce risk factors, and strengthen community health systems (Afrikeye Health).
Pan-African Media and Arts Engagement
Merck Foundation leverages media, arts, and culture to promote health education. The Our Africa TV program features episodes dedicated to diabetes awareness and healthy living, showcasing African experts, artists, and innovators. Additionally, awards for media, films, fashion, and music celebrate content that promotes healthy lifestyles and raises awareness about diabetes and hypertension prevention. Submission deadlines for all awards are 30th October 2026, encouraging African creatives to participate and advocate for community health improvements (Afrikeye Travel).
Through these scholarships, training programs, and awareness campaigns, Merck Foundation has reached over 2500 doctors in 52 countries, contributing significantly to building a robust healthcare workforce, strengthening medical education in Africa (Afrikeye Health), and improving access to quality care.
This story was first reported by Africa Newsroom. Read the full article here.
