Mfantsipim School has claimed the prestigious National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) trophy for the third time, bringing it “home for good” in an electrifying grand finale. The Botwe Boys fought through a series of challenging rounds, defeating formidable opponents including Prempeh College in the quarterfinals and Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (Presec) in the semifinals, both victories secured by nail-biting tiebreakers.
In the grand finale, Mfantsipim faced two-time champions St. Augustine’s College (Augusco) and Keta Senior High Technical School (Ketasco), two strong competitors who kept the pressure high. Augusco, which had dominated the competition up until the final round, was surprised by a remarkable comeback from Mfantsipim. With a mix of teamwork, grit, and sheer academic prowess, the Botwe Boys seized the lead and kept it until the very end, edging out Augusco in a tense finish.
Mfantsipim’s victory, however, was hard-fought. St. Augustine’s remained close on their heels, and it was ultimately a correct answer from Keta SHTS on the final riddle that secured the Botwe Boys’ one-point edge over Augusco. The final scores stood at 47 points for Mfantsipim, 46 points for St. Augustine’s, and 32 points for Keta SHTS. Mfantsipim’s achievement not only marks a significant win but also cements their place as one of the most tenacious teams in NSMQ history.
The competition had kicked off with high energy, as Mfantsipim and St. Augustine’s ended the first round tied at 24 points, while Keta SHTS trailed with 13. In the second round, Augusco pulled ahead to 34 points, but Mfantsipim kept up with 31, ensuring a close chase. Ketasco, though giving a spirited performance, faced an uphill battle with 12 points.
As the competition progressed, the auditorium buzzed with excitement as all three teams displayed their academic prowess. By the fourth round, St. Augustine’s surged ahead with 46 points, seeming almost untouchable, while Mfantsipim trailed at 44. But in the final round, Mfantsipim staged an unforgettable comeback, clinching the victory by the slimmest of margins.
This year’s NSMQ, produced by Primetime Limited, was sponsored by the Ghana Education Service in partnership with GOIL PLC and supported by Pepsodent, Jupay, and Prudential Life Insurance Ghana. The quiz was also broadcast by JoyNews, with additional support from NASCO, VitaMilk, Virtual Security Africa, Ace Medical Insurance, Built Financial Technologies, DBS Roofing, Sintex Tanks, Family Health Medical School, Chopbox Technologies, and Action Secondary Technical School.
The Botwe Boys’ historic win is a testament to their resilience, academic brilliance, and unbreakable team spirit, ensuring that the NSMQ trophy is back in Cape Coast, celebrated and cherished.
