Business
Middle Schooler Eniola Shokunbi raises $11.5 million for virus-filtering air system
Eniola Shokunbi, a middle school student from Connecticut, has launched an initiative to improve air quality in schools through affordable filtration systems. Her project gained significant momentum in October 2024 when the Connecticut State Bond Commission approved US$11.5 million in funding.
The idea began in fifth grade at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, where Shokunbi was tasked with enhancing school safety in preparation for future pandemics. Recognizing the importance of clean air in reducing airborne viruses like COVID-19, she developed a simple yet effective air filtration system.
Shokunbi’s design emphasizes innovation and cost-efficiency, using readily available materials: a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape, and cardboard.