Nigerian-Born 12-Year-Old Secures $11.5M for Groundbreaking Air Filter

Nigerian-Born 12-Year-Old Eniola Shokunbi Secures $11.5 Million Funding for Innovative Air Filter Invention

Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian-born student, has achieved a remarkable feat by securing $11.5 million in funding from the Connecticut State Bond Commission for her pioneering air filter system. This groundbreaking invention is designed to provide a cost-effective solution for improving indoor air quality in schools.

Eniola’s innovative journey began in the fifth grade at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, Connecticut. Her teacher tasked students with finding solutions to pandemic-related issues in schools, which inspired Eniola to design a pioneering air filtration system. Priced at just $60 per unit, Eniola’s prototype offers a game-changing, budget-friendly alternative to expensive commercial air purification systems.

“My goal was to make something that everyone could afford and that could make schools safer,” Eniola explained.

Eniola’s invention gained momentum with the support of University of Connecticut (UConn) scientists, who put it through rigorous testing. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) subsequently validated its efficacy, revealing that the device effectively removed over 99% of airborne viruses. This breakthrough paved the way for the Connecticut State Bond Commission’s approval of $11.5 million in funding to equip schools statewide with these innovative air filters.

The $11.5 million funding is allocated through UConn’s SAFE-CT initiative, a comprehensive program designed to equip every public school classroom with air purification systems.

Eniola’s work has earned her widespread acclaim from state officials, and she is now poised to take her innovative air filters nationwide.

“A lot of people don’t realize that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science,” the 6th grader noted.

Eniola’s remarkable achievement serves as a testament to the power of innovation and determination. Her invention has the potential to make a significant impact on indoor air quality in schools, and her story is an inspiration to young people everywhere.