Edmonton student using 3D printer to create prosthetic limbs for people in Uganda

A Grade 12 student at Old Scona High School is using his skills and free time to make prosthetic limbs for people in Uganda. Marek Tkach reports.

An Edmonton Old Scona High School student is using a 3D printer to make a difference for people across the world.

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Grade 12 grade student Esam Taher says he first got into skill when he saw a 3D printed dragon at a farmers market. He learned to make dragons first, something that would come in handy for a different project.

“I was able to find out ways that people actually use 3D printing to make prosthetic arms for individuals in marginalized communities where they might not have the pre-existing infrastructure for prosthetic arms,” Taher told CTV News Edmonton.

He says Canadians are lucky to live in a place where the healthcare system can provide prosthetics, unlike developing countries.

Making the prosthetic with the printer takes around 12 hours and assembling the pieces takes around six hours.

The limbs have enough strength to hold a small object, cups of water or toys. Taher has already sent two limbs to Uganda and plans to send another soon.

“It honestly feels like a way that I can turn my passion into something tangible and I’m really fulfilled and I hope that these arms can make a long lasting difference in those people’s lives.”

Making a difference

Taher works with the United Enable Coalition which is based in California. The organization sends the limbs directly to Uganda after going through rigorous testing.

Coalition director Dr. Anh-Quan Nguyen says kids are far more capable than people give them credit for, especially for the students he works with for the program.

“He could be making fidget spinners but he’s chosen instead to devote his time to making something for someone who’s literally across on the other side of the world,” said Dr. Anh-Quan Nguyen.

He says Taher and the other students he works with are the “future of engineering.” Nguyden says the limbs will often go to people whose arms have been cut off from extremist groups and crime.

More than 80 prosthetic arms have been shipped overseas.

Taher doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

“I hope to expand and reach individuals around the world so maybe one day it could turn into a business of sorts or even a bigger non-profit,” Taher said.

With files from CTV Edmonton’s Marek Tkach