Eniola Shokunbi has invented an air filter system made with commonly used materials whose production cost is only 60 euros: it will now be installed in public schools in Connecticut
Eniola Shokunbia brilliant 12-year-old Nigerian living in Connecticut, has captured the attention of the academic world thanks to her invention: a system of simple, economical and extremely effective air filtration.
The idea was born during a school project at the Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, where students were invited to propose solutions for address potential future pandemics in schools. The young woman took up the challenge, inspired by the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to improve air quality in classrooms.
Eniola designed its filter using commonly used materials: a box fan, four oven filters, tape and cardboard. The result was a device that was simple to assemble and, above all, economical, with a production cost of only 60 dollars per unit.
This practical approach makes it a valid alternative to commercial air purifiersoften much more expensive. “The air passes through all sides and exits from the top. Then it filters in and out”, explained the young inventor.
The filter is capable of eliminating over 99% of viruses present in the air
With the support of scientists at the University of Connecticut (UConn), the device underwent rigorous testing to evaluate its effectiveness. The results were exceptional: the filter is capable of eliminate over 99% of viruses present in the airwhich caught the attention of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The organization confirmed the potential of the system to ensure safer school environments.
Thanks to her invention, Eniola obtained a financing of 11.5 million dollars by the Connecticut State Bond Commission. The funds, part of the SAFE-CT (Supplemental Air Filtration for Education) program, will be used to implement the filtering system in schools public of Connecticut.
This ambitious project aims to ensure that each classroom is equipped with a device capable of improving air quality, thus reducing the risk of airborne diseases. Eniola’s vision, however, does not stop there. In fact, the girl hopes to see his system adopted in schools across the Villagehelping to create healthier and safer school environments for all.
“Many people don’t realize that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science”, declared Eniola, underlining the importance of investing in research and development of innovative solutions for children’s health. An extraordinary example of how creativity, science and determination can make a difference, even at just 12 years.
