The Ministry of Education has released GH¢9.5 million to Primetime Limited, organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz (NSMQ), to settle outstanding arrears owed from 2023 to date.

The announcement was made by Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu during his address at the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS).

In a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Hashim Haruna, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to promoting science and mathematics education through consistent financial support and broader participation.

“The Ministry of Education has released an amount of GH¢9.5 million to Primetime Company to clear all the arrears owed the organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz competition,” the statement read.

The Ministry also announced that the competition will now include more schools.

“The number of schools in the competition has now been expanded to 177, up from 124 this year,” the statement added.

Background

The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has announced that Ghanaian senior high schools will not participate in the balloting or subsequent stages of the 2025 National Science & Maths Quiz (NSMQ) because of financial constraints.

In a letter dated October 3, 2025, and signed by CHASS National Secretary Baro Primus, the organisation informed the quiz organisers, Primetime Limited, that many schools are unable to mobilise resources and prepare students. CHASS stated that the government funds meant for such activities have not been released.

“We regret to inform you that schools will not be able to participate in the balloting and subsequently the quiz competition due to non-availability of funds,” the letter read.

The association said it would reconsider its stance once the government releases the requisite funds and pledged to inform organisers accordingly. CHASS also apologised for any inconvenience this decision may cause.

The National Science & Maths Quiz (NSMQ) is an annual national quiz competition for senior high schools in Ghana, focusing on science and mathematics topics.

Since its inception in 1993, the NSMQ has grown from featuring 32 schools divided regionally into a nationwide competition with broad participation.

The competition is produced by Primetime Limited and is one of Ghana’s most celebrated academic programmes, promoting STEM education and academic excellence.

Past challenges have included funding lapses and interruptions. Between 2010 and 2011, the programme paused operations due to a lack of sponsorship.