For the first time in four years, the Ashanti region’s once-dominant force in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) has been halted, as none of its 29 participating schools will represent the region in this year’s grand finale.

Known for fierce contenders and a legacy of champions, Ashanti’s elimination marks a major shift in the NSMQ landscape.

The journey began with high hopes, as 29 Ashanti schools threw their hats into the ring, including eight seeded teams that had previously showcased strong performances.

Five-time champions Prempeh College and two-time champions Opoku Ware School were early favorites. However, they faced fierce opposition, with Prempeh College bowing out after a tight contest against Mfantsipim School. Opoku Ware’s journey was similarly cut short by Ghana National College, leaving the region stunned as these powerhouses exited in the quarterfinals.

Adding a glimmer of hope, Osei Tutu Senior High School made an impressive run, advancing to the semi-finals for the first time. Yet, their path was halted by Mfantsipim School, which ended Ashanti Region’s aspirations of a grand finale appearance this year.

Although the Ashanti Region schools fell short this year, their legacy remains strong, with four schools securing a seeded position for the next edition of NSMQ. The region is gearing up for a return to the finals, aiming to reclaim its status as a powerhouse in this fierce national competition.

As the grand finale approaches, the remaining finalists, Mfantsipim School, St. Augustine’s College, and Keta Senior High Technical School prepare for a showdown, bringing the NSMQ to a thrilling close without Ashanti representation for the first time in recent memory.