Abate Waldetensai
My Journey: From Lalenco to National Leadership in Public Health Research
I was born on 17 February 1991, in Oromia Region, Arsi Zone, Shirka Woreda, in a unique village called Soji Sade, Lalenco. I came into this world as the son of Waldetensai Haile and Yeshi Tesema, whose love and guidance shaped the foundation of my life. Growing up in Lalenco, surrounded by the rhythms of rural Ethiopia, I learned resilience, discipline, and the value of hard work—qualities that would later define my path.
My educational journey began at Anole Primary School, where I studied from Grade 1 to Grade 4. I then moved to Lalenco Primary School, completing Grade 8 with distinction and earning a high score in the national examination. This achievement opened the door to Gado Guna Secondary School, where I studied Grades 9 and 10. These years were not only marked by academic success but also by my passion for sports. I represented my schools in football and volleyball, winning medals and championships. As a forward in football and a lifter in volleyball, I became a source of pride for my schools, bringing home victories and recognition.
After completing Grade 10, I joined Shirka Preparatory and Secondary School, where I studied for two years before passing the national university entrance exam in 2012. That same year, I embarked on a new chapter at Wachemo University in Hossana, Central Ethiopia. There, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology, graduating in 2014 with an outstanding GPA of 3.91/4.0.
My professional journey began soon after, as a Biology Teacher at the College of Project Mercy and Preparatory School in Butajira, Gurage Zone. Teaching allowed me to share knowledge, mentor students, and inspire young minds. Yet, my passion for research and public health drew me toward a broader mission. In July 2016, I joined the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) as a Junior Researcher, marking the beginning of my career in medical entomology and public health.
At EPHI, I immersed myself in research on vector-borne diseases, contributing to outbreak responses and national health strategies. By 2019, I had advanced to the role of Public Health Research Associate, where I began to lead projects, publish extensively, and collaborate with national and international partners. My work has spanned malaria, arboviral diseases, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), and today I am proud to say that I am leading national research projects in all three areas. These projects not only strengthen Ethiopia’s fight against infectious diseases but also contribute to global scientific knowledge.
While working at EPHI, I pursued further education, enrolling in a Master’s program in Medical Entomology and Vector Control at Arba Minch University. I graduated in 2021, deepening my expertise in entomology and vector control. My academic journey continues today, as I am a PhD candidate at Addis Ababa University, focusing on entomology and public health research.
From my humble beginnings in Lalenco, born to Waldetensai Haile and Yeshi Tesema, to becoming a national leader in public health research, my journey reflects dedication, resilience, and a commitment to service. I have walked the path from a rural classroom to the forefront of Ethiopia’s fight against malaria, arboviruses, and NTDs. My story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose a journey that continues as I strive to improve health outcomes for my country and beyond.