Merck Foundation CEO Dr. Rasha Kelej has called for changes in family expectations and community attitudes to help girls remain in education and develop their potential.

Her comments were shared through the virtual mentorship platform Beyond Power; Leadership, Global Influence and Impact, which provides leadership guidance and practical insights for aspiring leaders, particularly women and young people in Africa, Asia and other Global South countries.

The article, titled Before a Girl Can Reach Her Potential, Her Family and Community Must Believe She Has One—Leadership Beyond the Obvious, examines how social norms, educational opportunities and practical support can shape a girl’s ability to pursue learning and achieve her ambitions.

Support beyond access to school

Dr. Kelej argues that providing access to education is only part of the challenge. Girls also need encouragement at home, in school and within their communities, she says, because expectations placed on them can affect the opportunities available to them.

“Providing girls with access to education is essential, but it is equally important to create an environment where their abilities are recognized, their ambitions are encouraged and their futures are supported. Family expectations, community attitudes and social norms can significantly influence a girl’s educational journey and the opportunities available to her,” Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) said.

The article identifies parents, teachers and community leaders as important actors in valuing girls’ education, encouraging continued learning and supporting their aspirations. It also emphasizes the need to give girls sufficient time and resources to study while helping them overcome challenges that may interrupt their education.

“When girls are encouraged to learn, given time and resources to study, and supported in overcoming challenges, they are better positioned to develop their confidence, pursue their ambitions and build a brighter future,” Dr. Kelej said.

Role of families and public leaders

According to the article, a girl’s abilities may be restricted not by her capacity but by the assumptions and expectations surrounding her. Kelej proposes that parents, educators and community figures communicate confidence in girls’ ability to learn and improve.

She suggests the message: “You can learn. You can improve. We will help you keep going.”

The article also highlights the potential role of African First Ladies in challenging gender stereotypes, promoting positive attitudes towards girls’ learning and encouraging parents and educators to support their ambitions.

Merck Foundation’s Educating Linda programme is presented as part of that wider commitment. The initiative supports academically promising girls from underprivileged backgrounds through scholarships. Kelej said the programme’s broader message is to recognize a girl’s potential, provide opportunities for her to develop it and support her throughout that process.

“Through our Educating Linda program, our commitment to education carries a wider message: believe in a girl’s potential, give her the opportunity to develop it and support her throughout that journey,” she said.

The leadership article is available through Kelej’s mentorship platform on Substack. The platform is described as drawing on 32 years of knowledge and experience that she intends to share with aspiring individuals.