12-year-old Eniola Shokunbi from Connecticut has captured the attention of both the scientific community and government officials with her innovative air filter design.
This young inventor, who is of Nigerian descent, has developed an affordable solution aimed at reducing the spread of airborne diseases in schools, a pressing concern in the wake of recent pandemics.
Shokunbi's air filter, which costs approximately $60 to produce, utilizes simple materials such as a box fan, furnace filters, duct tape, and cardboard.
The ingenuity of this design lies in its cost-effectiveness and simplicity, making it accessible for widespread use in educational settings. "The air goes through all the sides, and it comes out of the top. So it filters in and out," Shokunbi explained, highlighting the straightforward yet effective mechanism of her invention.
The Connecticut State Bond Commission has recognized the potential impact of Shokunbi's work by approving $11.5 million in funding.
This financial support will facilitate the implementation of her air filters across schools in the state as part of the University of Connecticut's SAFE-CT program.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has rigorously tested the device, confirming that it effectively eliminates over 99% of airborne viruses, thereby significantly enhancing classroom safety.
Shokunbi's vision extends beyond her local community; she aspires to see her air filters adopted in classrooms nationwide. Her initiative not only underscores the importance of investing in scientific solutions for public health but also exemplifies how young minds can contribute meaningfully to societal well-being.
As Shokunbi aptly put it, “A lot of people don’t realize that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science.”
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