Empowering women and youth in education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics); challenges and strategies, the response to the Coronavirus pandemic, and the Role of Scientific Research in responding to Cancer and Vaccines Development – Two emerging challenges in Africa”.
The Merck Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany. Established in 2017, the organisation aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology.
During the summit, the Executive Director of the Scientific, Technical and Research Commission of the African Union, Dr. Eng. Ahmed Hamdy, noted that the MARS provides a valuable opportunity for those interested in health research in Africa, in order to learn about ground-breaking scientific research that is currently underway in the continent with respect to COVID-19. He pointed out that these researches would “prepare the road ahead in Africa’s strategy to tackle the pandemic with a concrete approach”.
During her address, Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, Minister of Health and Population of Malawi, highlighted the role played by women in the global battle against the pandemic.
“Women stand at the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis, as health care workers, caregivers, innovators, community organizers, and as some of the most exemplary and effective national leaders in combating the pandemic,” she said. “This MARS ministerial panel has highlighted both the centrality of their contributions and the role of governments and policies in advancing gender equality which will be conducive in our collaboration to empower women and supporting girls in education. I am very privileged to work closely with the African Ministers to contribute towards the development of Africa.”
