<h1>Merck Foundation and African First Ladies Launch MARS Awards to Honor Women in STEM and Promote Gender Equality</h1> Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, celebrated the International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2025 with African First Ladies and various partners. They launched the MARS Awards to honor African women and young researchers in STEM, focusing on women's health and reproductive care. The foundation also supports girl education through scholarships and awareness campaigns, including storybooks, animation films, and songs. Their initiatives aim to bridge the gender gap in science and technology. The foundation remains non-political, focusing solely on enhancing well-being and education in underserved communities. Applications for the MARS Awards 2025 are open until June 30, 2025.