For three years, St Augustine's College has missed out on the finals of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ).

Thus anticipation was high when they secured a spot in the 2023 quarter-finals with their impressive performance; igniting hopes of claiming the trophy once again, four years after their last victory.

However, their dreams of reaching the finals were once again dashed by Keta SHS in a notable quarter-final showdown on Tuesday, October 17. To add to the disappointment, they also fell to Tamale SHS. 

So this science and maths quiz... Dem no go do RME and Social make I check something??

— Tommy Lucid (@Luci_szn) October 17, 2023

The contest began with the three formidable opponents, Tamale SHS, Keta SHS, and St Augustine's College, demonstrating their worthiness for that hotly contested quarter-final seat.

In the initial round, they displayed their prowess, amassing 20, 19, and 28 points, respectively, setting the stage for a challenging battle ahead.

Although the competition grew tougher, Keta managed to snatch the lead with 27 points in the second round, with Tamale SHS and St Augustine's trailing behind at 22 and 17 points, respectively.

End of Round 2:

Keta SHTS: 27pts
Tamale SHS: 22pts
St. Augustine’s College: 17pts#NSMQ2023 #NSMQ30 #NSMQQuarters #Primetime https://t.co/tA13VhhBt9 pic.twitter.com/BVlwYXrXpN

— National Science & Maths Quiz (@NSMQGhana) October 17, 2023

Round three's "problem of the day" proved to be equally challenging. Tamale scored three points, unable to reclaim the lead it had briefly held earlier. St Augustine's secured two points, while Keta SHS garnered one point.

As the competition intensified in round three, Keta SHS managed to maintain its lead, making their way to the nerve-wracking true/false round and the intricate riddles of round five. 

With 38 points, Keta SHS led the way, followed closely by Tamale SHS with 32 points, while St Augustine's found themselves in third place with 29 points.

Tamale SHS had shown a surge in the previous round but struggled with the riddles, allowing Keta SHS to answer more questions and ultimately secure victory with a total of 44 points. St Augustine's College finished in last place with 32 points.

End of Contest:

Keta SHTS: 44pts
Tamale SHS: 35pts
St. Augustine’s College: 32pts #NSMQ2023 #NSMQ30 #NSMQQuarters #Primetime https://t.co/1XFLv9S6Ej pic.twitter.com/VyRsRpr3tl

— National Science & Maths Quiz (@NSMQGhana) October 17, 2023

This achievement allows them to commence next year's competition from the one-eighth stage, a feat shared by Tamale SHS. This setback may be a turning point in their journey towards future NSMQ success.

Meanwhile, Keta SHS advances to the semi-finals. The winners of the two remaining contests will determine who their opponents are.

“Mbo Augustine!”#NSMQ2023 #NSMQ30 #NSMQQuarters #Primetime pic.twitter.com/1cbkY0dTOc

— National Science & Maths Quiz (@NSMQGhana) October 17, 2023

KETASCO is the school

— Chris Arthur (@CeKay98) October 17, 2023

The 2023 National Science and Maths Quiz is produced by Primetime Limited and sponsored by the Ghana Education Service in partnership with Goil PLC and supported by A.T, Prudential Life Insurance Ghana, and Pepsodent.

The broadcast of the National Science and Maths Quiz on JoyNews and Joy Prime is supported by Vitamilk, NASCO, German Ozone Medical Center, Royal Foam, Jamaa Soap, Heritage Christian College, Virtual Security Africa, Ace Medical Insurance, Chopbox Technologies, Sintex Tank, DBS, New Crystal Health Services, INVEST CORP, Built Financial Technologies, Beta Malt, Bright SHS Kukurantumi and Family Health University College.