Manipal, 13^th November 2023: In a significant development for reproductive health and infertility treatment in Africa and Asia, twelve doctors from countries including Burundi, Gambia, Kenya, Nepal, Uganda, Tanzania, Botswana, and Nepal have completed their specialised training in IVF Embryology at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), India. This milestone was achieved through the collaborative effort of the Merck Foundation's 'Merck More Than a mother' campaign and MAHE’s Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology.

The Vice Chancellor of MAHE, Lt. Gen. Dr M D Venkatesh, highlighted that the training program is a beacon of hope for childless women in Africa who face severe social challenges due to infertility. This initiative is expected to bring about a positive change in societal attitudes and provide much-needed medical assistance to infertile couples in Africa.

Since 2017, approximately one hundred African doctors have received training at the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, making significant strides in improving healthcare in this sector. "MAHE is committed to scaling up the Embryology training program to also include Southeast Asian countries and to strengthen industry participation in our programs," said Dr. Sharath Rao, The Pro Vice Chancellor of MAHE.

The beneficiaries of this program, like Dr. Tomusange Simon, a Gynecologist from Uganda, express immense gratitude for the opportunities provided by Manipal. This training has been instrumental in shaping their careers in IVF and enabling them to make a profound impact in their home countries. At the event, which also saw the distribution of certificates to the graduating doctors, Dr. Satish Kumar Adiga, the Coordinator of IVF Embryology training, gave an overall brief about the program. Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean of KMC Manipal, welcomed the gathering, while Dr. Prathima conducted the master of ceremony and rendered the vote of thanks.

This initiative by MAHE and the Merck Foundation is a significant step towards enhancing reproductive health services in Africa and beyond, empowering doctors with the knowledge and skills to combat infertility and make a lasting impact in their communities.