OAU produces unique Face mask in fight against Covid-19

The Information Communications Technology Knowledge Park domiciled in the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, has in its innovative quest designed a unique Face Mask in what can be described as a concerted effort in the fight against Covid-19.

Code named IfeMask, the mask is unique because of its durability, reusability and comfortability. The reinforced rubber material and acrylic painted body makes it possible to be washed and decontaminate after each use. The mask does not change shape on reuse and is comfortable to wear. It also embeds an N95 compliant high-efficiency particulate air filter material that allows for breathing while trapping foreign objects. The filtering material can be changed after each use. The detachable mask is easy to assemble and dissemble within 2 minutes.

Speaking on the design and uniqueness of the Facemask, Prof. Adesola Aderounmu, Dean, Faculty of Technology and Centre Leader, OAU-ICT Driven Knowledge Park at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, said the design, developing and production of IfeMask aligns with the vision of the World Bank, to create regionally-recognized and acknowledged Centres in Africa that is driven by high quality, commercialized research and technology; and in the case of OAK-Park, to also advance the growth of ICT industry.

“OAK-Park has been a trailblazer in this regard with other products such as drone and fingerprint scanner all locally produced in its line. Presently, we are leading the way through the production of Nose Mask, a key Personal Protective Equipment as part of the concerted response against COVID-19,” he said.

He added that the production of the unique mask is a response to the advice and mandate by the Federal Government of Nigeria that wearing face masks can help reduce the community spread of respiratory infections such as COVID-19. Thus, wearing of face masks is crucial at a critical time that we are in.

Currently, the Park is engaging potential manufacturers for large scale production of the Ife Mask in order to make it widely available.

As the nations of the world groan and grieve under the siege of the Covid-19 pandemic, African scientists are being challenged to help Africa look inwards and create effective homegrown solutions in combating the pandemic.

As widely advised and mandated by the Federal Government of Nigeria, wearing face masks can help reduce the community spread of respiratory infections such as COVID-19. Thus, wearing of face masks is crucial at a critical time that we are in.