In an exhilarating display of intellect and determination, Mfantsipim School emerged victorious in the 2024 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), narrowly defeating St. Augustine’s College by a single point in an intense final showdown held in Cape Coast on Wednesday.
This win came with added prestige as Mfantsipim was also the host school, making their victory a fulfillment of the hopeful slogan “Host and Win.” Mfantsipim clinched the title with a dramatic last-minute breakthrough, securing 47 points against St. Augustine’s 46, while Keta Senior High Technical School came in third with 32 points.
The climax of the contest unfolded in the final “riddle round,” where Mfantsipim’s team trailed St. Augustine’s by a narrow margin of two points. With both schools locked in a tight race, Mfantsipim managed to solve one critical riddle, earning the decisive three points needed to edge past St. Augustine’s by just one point. The tension in the auditorium was palpable as Mfantsipim’s supporters erupted in celebration, overwhelmed by the thrilling conclusion of the competition.
The final scoreboard was as follows:
Mfantsipim School: 47 points
St. Augustine’s College: 46 points
Keta Senior High Technical School: 32 points
Victory came with more than just the honor of winning the NSMQ trophy; Mfantsipim was awarded a cash prize of GH¢70,000 and additional rewards. St. Augustine’s College, as runners-up, took home GH¢50,000 and prizes, while Keta SHTS earned GH¢35,000 in recognition of their commendable performance.
From the very beginning of the contest, it was evident that this year’s NSMQ would be an intense and closely contested battle of wits. Mfantsipim and St. Augustine’s started the first round neck-and-neck, each amassing 24 points, while Keta trailed with 13 points. As the competition advanced into the second round, St. Augustine’s managed to pull slightly ahead, taking the lead with 34 points, followed closely by Mfantsipim with 31, while Keta continued with 12 points. The lead kept shifting as both Mfantsipim and St. Augustine’s fiercely vied for the top position, pushing each other to the limit. The audience held their breath as the competition reached its final stages, with the intensity building round by round until Mfantsipim’s well-timed riddle answer delivered their ultimate victory.
The 2024 NSMQ was groundbreaking not only for the fierce rivalry among the top contenders but also for its historic setting. For the first time in the competition’s history, the event took place outside the capital city of Accra, with Cape Coast hosting the grand finale. This change of venue added a new layer of excitement and anticipation, as Cape Coast is renowned for its rich educational heritage and longstanding academic tradition. Hosting the NSMQ in Cape Coast underscored the city’s legacy as a cradle of educational excellence in Ghana, with Mfantsipim’s win adding yet another milestone to Cape Coast’s storied history.
Since its inception in 1993, the NSMQ has grown into one of Ghana’s premier academic competitions, fostering a love for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among students across the nation. Over the years, the quiz has evolved into a symbol of intellectual achievement and academic pride, inspiring young Ghanaians to pursue excellence in scientific and mathematical fields. This year’s competition reached new heights, with a record-breaking 157 schools participating, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for the contest and its role in promoting academic excellence in Ghana.
Mfantsipim’s victory in the 2024 NSMQ is a testament to the school’s commitment to academic excellence and rigorous preparation. The journey to the final was not easy, as each school had to overcome challenging rounds against some of Ghana’s brightest minds. The team’s ability to remain focused, adapt under pressure, and deliver in the most critical moments speaks to the discipline and skill of Mfantsipim’s students and their mentors.
The NSMQ has long been more than just a contest; it has become a cherished tradition that brings together students, alumni, and communities in a shared celebration of knowledge. Mfantsipim’s triumph this year adds to the school’s legacy, reinforcing its reputation as a powerhouse in Ghanaian academia. The school’s alumni and supporters have rallied behind the team throughout the competition, offering unwavering support that undoubtedly contributed to their remarkable success.
For St. Augustine’s College and Keta SHTS, the competition may not have ended in victory, but their performances were nonetheless commendable. St. Augustine’s narrow loss by just one point reflects the school’s strength and competitive spirit. Meanwhile, Keta SHTS’s third-place finish highlights their determination and resilience in the face of tough competition. Both schools demonstrated the kind of intellectual prowess and perseverance that the NSMQ seeks to foster among Ghanaian students.
As the curtains close on the 2024 National Science and Maths Quiz, the legacy of this year’s competition will continue to inspire future generations of students. The NSMQ remains a powerful platform for celebrating academic achievement and nurturing a passion for learning, offering young minds the opportunity to shine and be recognized on a national stage. For Mfantsipim, the victory is a proud moment that will be remembered for years to come, marking their achievement as a milestone in the history of Ghana’s academic competitions.
The significance of the NSMQ extends beyond the individual victories of the schools involved. It represents a broader commitment to fostering intellectual growth, encouraging teamwork, and promoting the pursuit of knowledge. Each year, the NSMQ brings together students from diverse backgrounds and regions, creating a spirit of unity and shared purpose. By engaging in friendly yet intense competition, these students not only hone their academic skills but also learn valuable lessons about resilience, leadership, and the importance of collaboration.
Mfantsipim’s victory is a reminder of the impact that education and academic dedication can have on young lives. As the champions celebrate their hard-earned success, they serve as role models for their peers, exemplifying the rewards of hard work, focus, and perseverance. The NSMQ continues to shine as a beacon of educational excellence in Ghana, highlighting the importance of investing in the next generation’s intellectual development and preparing young leaders who will contribute to the nation’s progress.
Looking ahead, the 2024 NSMQ will remain a memorable chapter in Ghana’s educational narrative. The intense rivalry, the historic venue, and the sheer display of talent have left an indelible mark on this year’s competition. Mfantsipim’s journey to victory is a story of resilience, strategy, and teamwork, capturing the spirit of the NSMQ and its mission to celebrate Ghana’s brightest young minds. As schools across the country look forward to future competitions, Mfantsipim’s success will serve as a powerful motivation, encouraging students to embrace the challenges of learning and strive for excellence in all their academic pursuits.
