Eniola Shokunbi, a middle school student from Middletown, is already making a significant impact in her community and is just getting started.
At only 12 years old, Shokunbi has spearheaded a project to develop and implement air filtration systems that can remove harmful viruses like COVID-19 and cold from classrooms.
“The air goes through all sides, and it comes out of the top,” Shokunbi said. “It filters in and out.”
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The innovative filters were created by Shokunbi and her classmates at the Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy, according to a CT report.
The students collaborated with scientists and the University of Connecticut to design and produce the system, which consists of a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape and cardboard.
At just $60 to build, the system was tested and certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in North Carolina, which confirmed that it is efficient in removing over 99% of airborne viruses.
“This air filter takes out over 99% of viruses in the air, and it was proven effective,” Shokunbi said.
On Tuesday, Shokunbi’s efforts received a major boost when the State Bond Commission unanimously approved $11.5 million in funding for the construction and installation of these air filters in schools statewide.
The funding is set to go to the University of Connecticut as part of its Supplemental Air Filtration for Education Program.
State Senator Matt Lesser lauded Shokunbi for her leadership and efforts, describing her as a “real rock star” and an inspiring example for future generations.
“Eniola is fabulous. She wows every room she’s in front of. She’s a real rock star”, Lesser said.
Shokunbi’s goal is to expand the program nationwide and ensure that every classroom in America is equipped with these life-saving air filtration systems.
“I want kids to go to school knowing they’re safe, that they’re healthy, and that they can learn,” she said. “I love explaining to people and seeing their faces light up, realizing that this could change so many lives.”
It is Shokunbi’s dream to one day become U.S. president, and she believes that investing in science is crucial to securing a healthier future for children.
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“A lot of people don’t realize that science is the thing standing between them and getting sick,” she said. “If we’re not investing in that, then we’re not investing in kids’ futures.”
