The Merck Foundation, in collaboration with African First Ladies, ministries of health, and medical societies, has granted 830 specialized medical scholarships to doctors across 52 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. This initiative aims to strengthen healthcare systems by addressing critical gaps in specialized care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
These scholarships, part of the foundation’s total of 2,080 awarded so far, support one-year postgraduate diplomas and two-year master’s programs in areas such as diabetes, cardiology, preventative cardiovascular medicine, endocrinology, and obesity management. The training equips healthcare professionals with advanced skills to combat the rising burden of NCDs, which pose a growing challenge to global health.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, highlighted the significance of the milestone:
“I am very proud to share, together with our ambassadors, the first ladies of Africa, and our partners, that we have provided 830 scholarships to doctors from 52 countries for specialized training in diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular medicine, endocrinology, and obesity management, as well as a special three-month diabetes master course in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.”
The program’s graduates are encouraged to set up specialized clinics in local health centers, improving access to care for patients in underserved areas. This initiative is particularly crucial in Africa, where NCDs like diabetes are on the rise.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 45 million adults in Africa are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes,a figure projected to reach 110 million by 2045. Additionally, 70% of adults with diabetes in the region remain undiagnosed, making early detection and effective management essential.
By focusing on prevention and early intervention, the scholarships are creating a ripple effect in communities. Alumni like Dr. Mwamba Katema from Zambia are leveraging their training to establish diabetes and cardiovascular clinics that enhance patient care. Dr. Katema shared his experience:
“Going through the postgraduate diploma in diabetes exposed me to evidence-based and up-to-date information on diabetes management. With my newly acquired knowledge, I’m setting up a diabetic clinic that will reduce patient costs, waiting times, and complications while improving treatment adherence.”
The Merck Foundation’s commitment to strengthening healthcare capacity has already resulted in improved patient outcomes and reduced strain on larger hospitals. As the fight against NCDs intensifies, initiatives like this ensure that healthcare providers across Africa and beyond are equipped to make a lasting impact.
