JMSA Sophomore Focuses On Health Care Initiatives In Ethiopia

Jose Marti STEM Academy sophomore Eldana Teklu came to the United States from her native homeland of Ethiopia approximately two-and-a-half years ago.  The 15-year old is one of five students at the Union City school to be named a New Jersey Governor’s STEM Scholar.  In addition, Teklu spent August 12th participating in the United Nations’ International Youth Day conference, where she interacted with students from around the world and presented her E3 Project to U. N. ambassadors.  The project, Everyday Essentials for Ethiopia, focuses on providing fair, equitable health care initiatives to people living in the African nation.

All of Teklu’s research was conducted at Jose Marti STEM Academy.  She is extremely passionate about her project and the impact it can have on people living in Ethiopia.  The E3 Project’s core mission is to promote sustainability, health care equity, and access.  Locally, her initiative aims to break down medical barriers through healthcare events, such as a recent Union City Health Fair at Union City High School and by providing necessary medical supplies. To honor her home country, she expands this initiative to rural, far-away villages in Ethiopia by actively providing communities with kits packed with medical essentials.

Teklu says her career goal is to become a doctor.  She wants to make a difference in the world and for her homeland.

Teklu has been able to expand upon her research, which she began about one year ago, since taking part in the United Nations Youth Conference by applying information she received from both the ambassadors and fellow high school and college students.

Having spent some time with her formulating this article, it is quite apparent that Eldana Teklu is an extremely intelligent young lady who is a perfect example of the kind of students being taught at Jose Marti STEM Academy.

The other four students receiving Governor’s STEM Scholar status at Jose Marti are Jacob Ayala, Camila Medrano, Evelyn Rivera and Isabella Sanchez.