Berlin: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, in collaboration with African and Asian First Ladies, commemorates World Hypertension Day by launching a significant capacity-building initiative. This program offers 997 specialized scholarships in Cardiovascular Preventive, Cardiology, Diabetes Care, and Endocrinology to healthcare providers across 52 countries. According to African Press Organization, the Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks this day alongside the First Ladies of Africa and Asia, and partners such as Ministries of Health, Medical Societies, and Academia through their Nationwide Diabetes and Hypertension Blue Points Program. The scholarships include online diplomas and master's degrees in various medical fields and aim to expand healthcare access in hypertension and diabetes care nationwide. Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed the Foundation's commitment to expanding access to quality and equitable healthcare by providing nearly 1,000 scholarships for health care providers. This initiative not only focuses on capital cities but also extends support to doctors throughout each country, thereby enhancing healthcare capacity and access. Merck Foundation has awarded over 2,600 scholarships across 44 critical medical specialties. Dr. Hazel W. Kariuki, a Merck Foundation alumnus from Kenya, shared her transformative experience, noting significant improvements in clinical knowledge and practical skills, which have enhanced patient management practices in her community. The World Health Organization data highlights the African region's high hypertension prevalence, affecting approximately 27% of adults, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives. In addition to scholarships, Merck Foundation, in partnership with First Ladies, has launched children's storybooks and animation films to raise awareness about hypertension and diabetes and promote healthier lifestyles through educational content. The Foundation's pan-African TV program "Our Africa," conceptualized and co -hosted by Dr. Kelej, addresses social and health issues, including hypertension and diabetes, further raising awareness through its broadcast across numerous African countries and social media platforms. Merck Foundation also organizes annual awards in media, film, fashion, and music to encourage creative expressions that promote healthy lifestyles and awareness about disease prevention. The submission deadline for these awards is October 30, 2026, with entries to be submitted via email to [email protected].