Dubai: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, along with First Ladies from Africa and Asia, marked World Hypertension Day by announcing the expansion of healthcare capacity through 997 specialized scholarships for 52 countries.According to African Press Organization, Merck Foundation, the charitable arm of Merck KGaA Germany, has partnered with Ministries of Health, Medical Societies, and Academia through their Nationwide Diabetes and Hypertension Blue Points Program. This initiative aims to provide young healthcare providers with access to quality education in Hypertension, Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Cardiovascular Preventive Care. The scholarships offered include One-Year Online PG Diplomas and Two-Year Online Masters Degrees in these specialized fields, alongside Clinical Cardiovascular Care and Clinical Diabetes Onsite Fellowship Programs.The scholarships are designed to support doctors not only from major cities but from across entire countries, ensuring a broad expansion of healthcare capacity and improved access to hypertension and diabetes care. To date, Merck Foundation has awarded more than 2,600 scholarships to healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.Dr. Hazel W. Kariuki, a Merck Foundation alumnus from Kenya, expressed that the scholarship significantly strengthened her clinical knowledge and practical skills in cardiovascular and diabetes care. The training has enabled her to enhance patient management practices and contribute effectively to healthcare services in her community.The African region has a high prevalence of hypertension, with approximately 27% of adults affected, as per WHO data. In response, Merck Foundation, in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and Asia, has also launched children's storybooks, "Marks Pressure" and "Sugar Free Jude," to raise awareness about hypertension and diabetes, respectively. These books aim to encourage children and families to adopt healthier lifestyles as a preventive measure.Merck Foundat ion has also developed animation films based on these storybooks to educate children and youth about the importance of healthy habits such as reducing salt and sugar intake, exercising regularly, and eating balanced meals. Dr. Kelej emphasized that small lifestyle changes today can lead to a healthier tomorrow.Dr. Rasha Kelej also produces and co-hosts "Our Africa," a pan-African TV program that raises awareness about social and health issues, including Hypertension and Diabetes. The program features African fashion designers, singers, and prominent experts and is broadcasted on national and prime TV stations in several African countries and social media platforms.In addition to these initiatives, Merck Foundation annually launches awards for media, fashion designers, filmmakers, musicians, and new talents from African countries to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. The submission deadline for the 2026 awards is 30th Octob er 2026, and entries can be submitted via email.
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