Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian-American student, has made headlines for her groundbreaking contribution to classroom health and safety.
While in the fifth grade at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy, Eniola was challenged by her teacher to develop a solution to future pandemic-related issues in schools. Inspired by the need for improved air quality during the COVID-19 pandemic, Eniola designed a cost-effective air filter system that has since gained national attention.
Using simple materials—furnace filters, a box fan, duct tape, and cardboard—Eniola created a prototype for just $60 per unit, significantly cheaper than commercial air purifiers. “The air goes through all the sides and comes out of the top, so it filters in and out,” she explained during an interview.
Eniola’s invention received validation from scientists at the University of Connecticut (UConn), where it underwent rigorous testing. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed that her device successfully eliminates more than 99% of airborne viruses, positioning it as a viable, low-cost tool for classrooms.
Her innovative work recently caught the attention of Connecticut state officials, leading to a major investment in her vision. The Connecticut State Bond Commission approved $11.5 million in funding to implement her air filters in schools statewide. The funding supports UConn’s SAFE-CT (Supplemental Air Filtration for Education) Program, which aims to provide every public school classroom with access to air purification systems.
State officials have praised Eniola’s ingenuity and determination. Now in sixth grade, Eniola hopes to expand her air filters to schools across the country. “A lot of people don’t realize that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science,” she said.
