The 2024 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) saw Keta Senior High School (KETASCO) deliver a stellar performance, outclassing Achimota School and Mpraeso SHS to secure their place in the semi-finals.

The much-anticipated quarter-final clash took place on Wednesday, October 23, at the SGS Auditorium in Cape Coast, where the three schools locked horns in a thrilling contest filled with breathtaking moments for a coveted semi-final slot.

This quarter-final contest was packed with electrifying moments, academic brilliance, and excitement as each school fought to outshine the others; but it was KETASCO who proved unstoppable from the very start.

KETASCO, hungry to reclaim their place in the finals after falling short in 2023 against the eight-time champions, Presbyterian Boys Secondary School (PRESEC), entered the contest determined to leave no room for doubt. And from the very first round, they proved their mettle, amassing a commanding 33 points and leaving their challengers in their wake—Achimota with 20 points and Mpraeso SHS trailing with 14.

The atmosphere in the auditorium was a thrilling mix of tension and jubilation as KETASCO’s supporters roared with pride, while the MOTOWN team and Mpraeso fans watched anxiously as their teams struggled to keep up.

The contest intensified in the second round as each school showcased remarkable teamwork and intellectual prowess. Although KETASCO maintained their lead with 34 points, Achimota began to close the gap with 24 points, while Mpraeso SHS slipped further, stuck at 9 points.

Then came the third round—where Achimota School surged, briefly threatening KETASCO’s dominance. But the Volta giants, driven by sheer determination and grit, pressed on and widened the gap, amassing 48 points in the fourth round.

The MOTOWN boys fought valiantly, finishing the round with 39 points, while Mpraeso SHS stayed behind with 21 points.

In the final round, KETASCO embodied the wisdom of the Akan proverb “Dua a enya wo a ebewo w’ani no, yetu asee; yensensene ano” which translates to "One does not sharpen the stick that would pierce his eye; instead, he uproots it.” Knowing they had to finish off Achimota or risk an upset, KETASCO delivered a flawless performance, securing a massive 54 points to book their slot in the semi-finals.

Though Achimota School gave an impressive fight and ended with 42 points, their effort was not enough to topple the relentless KETASCO team. Mpraeso SHS, despite their best efforts, finished with 21 points, ending their journey in this year’s championship race.

KETASCO’s thrilling victory not only secured them a well-deserved place in the semi-finals but also reaffirmed their status as one of the top contenders in this year’s NSMQ. The Volta stars are back—and ready to take on whatever challenge lies ahead in their quest for the ultimate NSMQ trophy and bragging rights!

The 2024 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 Pepsodent, Jupay, and Prudential Life Insurance Ghana.

The broadcast of the National Science & Maths Quiz on JoyNews is supported by 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.