Dr. Rasha Kelej Meets Mauritius President to Strengthen Partnership to Improve Access to Innovative and Equitable Healthcare and Empower Women in STEM
Business Wire India
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany met HIS EXCELLENCY MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, during a high-level meeting, to share the impact of their programs and underscore their long-term commitment to transform public healthcare in Mauritius.
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of 'More Than a Mother' Campaign emphasized, 'It was a great honor to meet H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Mauritius and share with him the impact of our partnership and programs since 2017 that aim to transform patient care, build healthcare and media capacity, to empower women in STEM, support girl education and raise awareness about social and health issues in Mauritius and the rest of Africa.
I am proud to share that we have provided 100 scholarships for Mauritian doctors in 42 critical and under-served specialties. During our meeting, we also discussed the possibility of providing specialized training for Mauritian doctors in innovative and emerging fields such as Stem Cell Therapy in pathology, CAR T-cell treatment, AI in Radiology, Radiotherapy and Medical Oncology, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Neurology, Nephrology, Urology, and Neurosurgery.'
She further added, 'We are strongly committed to work closely with Ministry of Health to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare solutions.'
The 100 scholarships for local Mauritian Doctors have been provided for One-Year PG Diploma and Two-year Master Degrees in many critical specialties including Fertility, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Oncology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Acute Medicine, Respiratory, Gastroenterology, Dermatology, Neuroimaging for Research, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Clinical Microbiology and infectious diseases, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Ophthalmology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, Critical Care, Neonatal Medicine, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Advanced Cytopathology and many more.
Merck Foundation has so far provided more than 2280 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, with many of them becoming the first specialists in their countries.
During her visit, Merck Foundation CEO also met the Hon'ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, and senior officials from the Office of Hon'ble Minister of Health, Mauritius.
Merck Foundation also conducted the 4th Edition of their Health Media Training for the Mauritian Media Representatives in partnership with Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius. The training session was conducted to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift with the aim to address wide range of social and health issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV, Diabetes and Hypertension awareness. It was co-chaired by Merck Foundation CEO and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius.
During the training session, the Call for Application for 8 important Merck Foundation Awards were announced for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.
The award announced are:
1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius : Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.
Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
2. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.
Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
3. Merck Foundation Film Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.
Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
4. Merck Foundation Song Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.
Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 'Diabetes & Hypertension', in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
6. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2025 'Diabetes & Hypertension', in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
7. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2025 'Diabetes & Hypertension: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 'Diabetes & Hypertension' : All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Submission deadline: 30th October 2025
Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at:
[email protected]
For information on the above awards, please visit our website:
www.merck-foundation.com
Click on the link below to Download Merck Foundation App
https://apps.apple.com/co/app/merck-foundation/id1535584997?l=en
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! Facebook: Merck Foundation X: @MerckFoundation YouTube: MerckFoundation Instagram: Merck Foundation Threads: Merck Foundation Flickr: Merck Foundation
Website: https://merck-foundation.com/
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Upturn
2 days ago
- Business Upturn
Landmark MyClip Procedure Performed at Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad
Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad, is proud to announce a landmark achievement in cardiac care with the successful completion of a MyClip procedure (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair – TEER) on a 75-year-old male patient. Business Wire India Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad, is proud to announce a landmark achievement in cardiac care with the successful completion of a MyClip procedure (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair – TEER) on a 75-year-old male patient. This intervention, performed under the expert leadership of Chief Cardiologist Dr. M. Sai Sudhakar, marks the first time this procedure has been conducted in the Telugu-speaking states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, and only the second such case in South India. The patient had been diagnosed with severe mitral regurgitation (MR), severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and was experiencing NYHA Class IV heart failure symptoms. He presented with profound breathlessness and was unable to carry out even minimal physical activity. Given his high surgical risk and complex pulmonary profile, he was deemed unfit for conventional mitral valve replacement (MVR). The cardiac team, guided by Dr. M. Sai Sudhakar, performed the minimally invasive MyClip procedure using advanced transesophageal echocardiography and fluoroscopy. The procedure was conducted under conscious sedation, and the MyClip device was precisely deployed, resulting in an immediate reduction of mitral regurgitation from severe to mild. The patient exhibited a remarkable improvement in symptoms, moving from NYHA Class IV to Class II within just 24hours after the procedure. He is currently stable and under close follow-up, and significantly improved symptoms. Reflecting on this milestone, Dr. M. Sai Sudhakar commented, 'This case exemplifies how advanced structural heart interventions can transform outcomes for patients who have no other surgical options. Our team's expertise and commitment made it possible to offer a life-changing therapy to a patient previously considered inoperable.' In a significant development for accessibility and affordability, Dr. Sudhakar highlighted that earlier, such procedures relied on foreign-based devices that had to be imported at a cost of more than Rs. 45 lakh. Now, with the introduction of the Indian-made MyClip device, developed by an Indian company, this advanced therapy is much more affordable and cost-effective for the common man in our country. Ms Madhvi Khurana, Chief Administrator, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdikapul, added, 'Bringing the MyClip procedure to the Telugu states not only sets a new benchmark for cardiac care but also reinforces our mission to make the latest, most effective therapies accessible to our community. We are proud to lead the way in advanced, minimally invasive heart treatments.' This achievement highlights the life-saving potential of catheter-based structural heart interventions, especially for patients who are not candidates for open-heart surgery. It also reinforces Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdikapul, as a regional center of excellence in advanced cardiac care and minimally invasive therapies. Under Dr. M. Sai Sudhakar's leadership, the hospital's structural heart program continues to adopt the latest innovations in interventional cardiology, ensuring that these therapies are accessible to the common man as well. The hospital extends its sincere appreciation to the entire heart team, cath lab staff, and the anaesthesiology and critical care teams for their dedication and coordination in making this milestone possible. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire India. Business Upturn take no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Business Upturn
3 days ago
- Business Upturn
Not Rocket Science Launches Game Changing RTD Shake with 26g Protein for Daily Life
Protein in India has evolved. What started as scoops of powder tucked away in gym bags has moved through chewy bars in office drawers. Now, Not Rocket Science, a modern nutrition brand, is taking protein mainstream with the launch of Protein Punch — a ready to drink shake delivering 26 grams of protein along with functional adaptogens. Business Wire India Protein in India has evolved. What started as scoops of powder tucked away in gym bags has moved through chewy bars in office drawers. Now, Not Rocket Science, a modern nutrition brand, is taking protein mainstream with the launch of Protein Punch — a ready to drink shake delivering 26 grams of protein along with functional adaptogens. Designed for everyday routines, not just fitness ones, Protein Punch offers a new way to get serious nutrition without overthinking it. It is lactose free, gluten free, and contains no added sugar. The launch comes as more Indians begin prioritizing protein in their diets. According to IMARC Group, India's protein based product market was valued at Rs. 38,247 crore (4.6 billion USD) in 2024 and is projected to reach Rs. 1.36 lakh crore (16.3 billion USD) by 2033. The ready to drink protein beverages category is also expected to nearly double in the same period, as per Data Bridge Market Research. 'We saw that people want to eat better but don't want to turn their whole life upside down to do it,' said Arjun Patel, Founder of Not Rocket Science. 'That's what inspired us. We built Protein Punch to be something that works on your busiest days, without needing any mixing, scooping, or second thoughts. It's straightforward, effective, and actually tastes good.' Launch Campaign The brand has launched Protein Punch clocking more than 600k views with the help of influencers like Tanuj Virwani , Varun Verma , Snigdha Ravi and more such health and fitness evangelists who bring the campaign proposition -Protein for the rest of us to the fore. Each bottle of Protein Punch contains 26 grams of high quality dairy protein and 280 mg of KSM 66 Ashwagandha, an adaptogen known to support stress relief and recovery. It goes beyond muscle building to support overall wellbeing, making it a solid everyday option for anyone looking to improve their nutrition. Protein Punch is now available at as well as Amazon, Flipkart, and JioMart. It will also soon be available on Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart for quick access anytime. As India's functional foods market continues to expand — projected to grow from 13 billion USD in 2023 to more than 25 billion USD by 2030 — Not Rocket Science is positioning itself as a brand that blends science with daily simplicity. 'We are not trying to impress with complexity. We are trying to make nutrition easier for people who are already doing a hundred things in a day,' added Arjun Patel. 'This isn't just about launching a drink. It is about helping people build a habit they can stick to.' We're going beyond screens! Protein Punch is now hitting the shelves across India — starting with gyms, supermarkets, cafés, and local can already find us in metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, and at Nature's Basket stores near you. This is just the beginning — stay tuned for more! Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire India. Business Upturn take no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Business Upturn
4 days ago
- Business Upturn
Abbott Launches Digene Insta on the Go – Instant Relief from Acidity, Anytime, Anywhere
By Business Wire India Published on July 9, 2025, 15:25 IST Abbott is redefining on-the-go wellness with the launch of Digene Insta On The Go—a ready-to-use antacid solution that delivers relief in just 2 seconds. Business Wire India Abbott is redefining on-the-go wellness with the launch of Digene Insta On The Go—a ready-to-use antacid solution that delivers relief in just 2 seconds. With Digene Insta On The Go, Abbott has introduced a ready-to-use, water-free solution that fits seamlessly into the fast-paced lives of today's consumers. It provides fast and effective relief from acidity, heartburn, and indigestion. 1 Developed for people with busy lifestyles, this fast-acting formula acts in just 2 seconds 2 —delivering convenience. Each 10 ml sachet is ready to use and effectively targets acidity and gas-related discomfort. It is designed for instant use, without the need for water, mixing, or measuring. Simply tear open the sachet and sip for direct relief. Digene Insta On The Go is now available in refreshing mint flavor at Rs.50 for a pack of five single-use sachets. Dr. Jejoe Karankumar, Director of Medical Affairs at Abbott, said, 'Acidity can strike without warning – during a hectic workday, while traveling, or even on your daily commutes 3,4 . This ready-to-use, handy solution delivers rapid relief within seconds and is effective for over two hours 1 . Backed by the trust of a legacy brand, it blends proven efficacy with unmatched convenience—all in a compact, pocket-friendly format designed for life on the move.' The development of this new format was deeply rooted in consumer insights that revealed a growing demand for fast, discreet, and portable solutions to manage acidity. These insights guided Abbott to reimagine the delivery of relief, resulting in a water-free, single-use sachet that aligns with the spontaneous and mobile nature of modern lifestyles. By listening closely to consumer pain points and preferences, Abbott has created a solution that not only meets but anticipates the needs of today's fast-paced world. To amplify the launch, Digene has rolled out a high-impact, integrated campaign: 'Acidity Kaheen Bhi Ho, Digene Insta On The Go' . This digital-first initiative spans outdoor activations, retail touchpoints, and online platforms—ensuring visibility where it matters most. The campaign includes engaging films such as the Multiplex Film , the Bus Film , and the Adventure Film . Digene Insta On The Go is a new addition to the Digene range, India's No.1 antacid brand 5 , offering consumers another option for managing acidity. Now available at major pharmacies and online platforms across India, Digene Insta On The Go complements Abbott's trusted range of antacid solutions, including Digene Gel and Tablets. ### Refers to the time taken to bring the pH to 3.5, after the amino acid comes in contact with gastric acid. Improved formula refers to higher strength formula with Higher ANC. An invitro study comparing the Preliminary Antacid Test, Acid Neutralizing Capacity and Acid Neutralizing Potential of two antacid products. URAR. Available at: . Dhawal PP, Barve SS. Preliminary in-vitro evaluation of marketed formulations for antacid activity. Int J Basic Clin Pharmacol. 2019:2319-003. Wisely, R. (2018) Why sleep disorders cause heartburn (and vice versa), Why Sleep Disorders Cause Heartburn (and Vice Versa). Available at: Heartburn: Causes, symptoms, and treatment (no date) WebMD. Available at: IQVIA Data April 2025 Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire India. Business Upturn take no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash Business Wire India, established in 2002, India's premier media distribution company ensures guaranteed media coverage through its network of 30+ cities and top news agencies.
