A girl of Nigerian origin is being celebrated online because of her scientific prowess.
Eniola Shokunbi, a fifth-grade
pupil, was given an assignment in class, which led her to create something valuable.
According to the story,
12-year-old Eniola was a student at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in
Middletown, Connecticut, where the class assignment was given.
The class was tasked with
producing a solution to a possible future pandemic, such as COVID-19, which
spread through the air.
Eniola's impressive efforts
resulted in her air purifier, which is said to be of low cost.
After rigorous testing at the
University of Connecticut, it was confirmed the air purifier could remove 99%
of viruses from the air.
Also, Eniola's device was
further tested by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which confirmed
its efficacy in purifying the air.
Eniola explains how air filter
works
Following the success story of
Eniola's invention, the Connecticut State Bond Commission has approved $11.5
million (N19.4 billion) in funding for its mass production for schools.
Reacting, Eniola explained how
the $60 (N101,000) device works:
“The air goes through all the
sides, and it comes out of the top, so it filters in and out."
She said she hoped people would
continue to fund scientific solutions. Her words:
“A lot of people don’t realize
that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science."
On her website, she explained
further:
"I played a pivotal role
in securing an $11.5 million grant to fund the construction and installation of
DIY air filters in schools throughout Connecticut. With this determination, I
aim to expand my efforts to ensure that every classroom nationwide and around
the world benefits from cleaner air."
Eniola's story has been shared by many social media platforms, including on X by @mymixtapez.
Speaking on the development, an
engineer, Ziko Abara, said Eniola may not have received the funding support if
she were to be in Nigeria.
Ziko studied electronics and
computer engineering at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
His words:
"Who cares about air
quality development in Nigeria? Talk more about funding such an idea... It's in
areas where the fight against negative climate change is active that her work
will thrive in."
Ziko said lack of funding was
one of the greatest impediments facing innovators such as himself in Nigeria.
Ziko, who built a jet engine,
said:
"I'd say funding, and an
enabling environment. Let me use myself as an example, the jet engine project
development has gulped about N1.2m. If we didn't have the resources and support
to do it, we'd never have done it. I see many creators building their ideas
with paper and cartons and it's sad to see.
"An enabling environment
will also help, maybe engineering and research facilities in universities can
be opened up to young engineers who have the drive to work."
Reactions as Nigerian girl
invents air filter system
@Triggerx09 said:
"See as life easy for
saner climes, tell me say if to say na there you dey run this stuff, Elon or
other people never go don put better money behind am. It's well shaa, you will
get there."
@UncleOsas_ said:
"Saw her on the news the
other day. Super impressive."
@femmymafia said:
"Nigerians would have been
one of the greatest people ever created if not for the bad guys in the
system!!!!! Go Girlllllll. We’re solidly behind you baby girl!!!"
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