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From JHS Genius to NSMQ History: The Rise of Stephen Kofi Apemah-Baah of Opoku Ware School

4th November 2025

Ferdinand | EducationGhana | November 01 |From JHS Genius to NSMQ History: The Rise of Stephen Kofi Apemah-Baah of Opoku Ware School

Meet Stephen Kofi Apemah-Baah, the 16-year-old prodigy from Opoku Ware School who made history as the first form-one student to lead his school to the NSMQ Grand Finale. His journey from JHS to national fame is a story of resilience, brilliance, and destiny.

A Legend in the Making

The National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) has produced many great minds, but few stories capture the imagination quite like that of Stephen Kofi Apemah-Baah of Opoku Ware School. His rise from a young contestant in a local science quiz to one of Ghana’s brightest academic icons is a testament to determination, focus, and excellence nurtured through consistent effort.

The Journey Begins: Humble Roots in Kumasi

In 2021, while still in JHS 2 at Good Shepherd R/C JHS in Kumasi, Stephen decided to take part in the KNUST College of Science Junior Science and Maths Quiz (JSMQ). Though he was eliminated at the semifinal stage, that early setback marked the beginning of an extraordinary academic journey. As he later proved, true brilliance is not measured by one defeat, but by the strength to rise again.

The Comeback and the Presidential Honour

By JHS 3, Stephen returned to the JSMQ with sharper confidence and deeper curiosity. This time, he didn’t just participate—he won the entire competition, emerging as the 2022 JSMQ Champion.

In the same year, he achieved aggregate 9 in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), earning him a Presidential Award for academic excellence. His name began circulating quietly among teachers, parents, and education watchers as one of Ghana’s most promising young talents.

Breaking Records at Opoku Ware School

When Stephen entered Opoku Ware School (OWASS) in 2023, many expected him to take time to adjust to the demanding life of a science student.

Instead, at just 16 years old, he led his school’s team to the Grand Finale of NSMQ 2023, becoming the first-ever first-year student in OWASS history to achieve that feat. The achievement placed him in a rare category of contestants who made national headlines before completing their first academic year.

Three-Time NSMQ Contender: 2023, 2024, and 2025

Stephen’s journey did not end with one final appearance. He went on to represent OWASS again in 2024 and 2025, becoming one of the few contestants to feature in three consecutive NSMQ competitions. This consistency reflects not only his personal brilliance but also the culture of academic discipline that Opoku Ware School has cultivated over decades of science competition excellence.

More Than a Quiz Star

Beyond quiz circuits, Stephen’s story embodies a broader message: Ghanaian students thrive when given early exposure, mentorship, and institutional support. His transformation from a JHS participant to a national champion reinforces the value of nurturing STEM talent at the foundational level.

A National Inspiration

Today, Stephen Kofi Apemah-Baah stands as a symbol of perseverance and youthful genius. From the classrooms of Good Shepherd R/C JHS to the NSMQ stage, his story continues to inspire thousands of young learners across Ghana. As one education analyst remarked, “Stephen’s story reminds us that the future of science in Ghana lies in how early we recognize and develop brilliance.”

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