Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old middle school student, is making waves with her innovative project to improve air quality in classrooms. Her work has recently garnered significant attention and funding.
A Young Trailblazer Tackles Classroom Air Filtration
Shokunbi, a student at Middletown’s Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy, has spearheaded the development of an air filtration system that can remove harmful viruses, including COVID-19 and the common cold, from classroom air.
“The air goes through all sides, and it comes out of the top,” Shokunbi explained. “It filters in and out.”
Collaborative Efforts Yield Effective and Affordable Solution
Shokunbi and her classmates collaborated with scientists and the University of Connecticut to design and produce the filtration system. Consisting of a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape, and cardboard, the system was tested and certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which confirmed its ability to remove over 99% of airborne viruses.
“This air filter takes out over 99% of viruses in the air, and it was proven effective,” Shokunbi said.
Securing Statewide Funding for Widespread Implementation
On Tuesday, Shokunbi’s efforts received a significant boost when the State Bond Commission unanimously approved $11.5 million in funding for the construction and installation of these air filters in schools across Connecticut.
The funding will be directed to the University of Connecticut’s Supplemental Air Filtration for Education Program.
Inspiring Others and Advocating for Science Investment
State Senator Matt Lesser praised Shokunbi’s leadership and described her as a “real rock star” who is setting an inspiring example for future generations.
Shokunbi’s goal is to expand the program nationwide, ensuring that every classroom in America is equipped with these life-saving air filtration systems. She believes that investing in science is crucial to securing a healthier future for children.
“A lot of people don’t realize that science is the thing standing between them and getting sick,” Shokunbi said. “If we’re not investing in that, then we’re not investing in kids’ futures.”
At just 12 years old, Eniola Shokunbi is already making a significant impact on her community and beyond, demonstrating the power of STEM innovation to address pressing challenges.
