NSMQ 2021: Mpraeso SHS draws inspiration from Osibisa’s ‘Woyaya’ to battle its rivals

The second album by Ghanaian Afro-rock band Osibisa, Woyaya released in 1971 has been the driving force for Mpraeso SHS since the commencement of the Eastern Regional contest of the 2021 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ).

On Tuesday, the school affirmed the assertion that the power of music can surmount any obstacle in its way as well as make its lyrics a reality.

The contest featuring Mpraeso SHS, Nkawkaw SHS, Abetifi Presby SHS, Kwabeng Anglican SHTS, Presby SHTS and Akro SHTS today saw the contestants of Mpraeso emerge victorious.

With 53 points, the Mpraeso-based school living the lyrics of the song which says (It will be hard, we know that the road will be muddy and rough but we will get there..) is now a step closer to realising its dream of becoming Eastern Region’s Champions.

Speaking to JoyNews’ Maxwell Agbagba after their victory, both contestants and supporters of Mpraeso SHS in unison sang Woyaya meaning “We are going” to commemorate their victory.

According to the school, they shall perform their inspirational song before and during the national contest slated for October this year to secure a victory before the contest even begins.

“The song ignites a passion in us whenever we sing it so it is a nice experience having it here. It also to motivate us to continue. We thank God for giving us a successful contest,” they said.

They also revealed that another reason for singing the song is to show appreciation to their old students for the immense support they have given the school.

Laptops, a learning room furnished with WiFi connectivity, air conditioners and monetary support are among many things the school testified of.

Although conventionally spelt Woyaya, the album’s title is actually Wɔyaya  which comes from the Ghanaian Ga language.