Incredible 157 Schools to Shine in the 2024 NSMQ Championship, Unleashing the Power of STEM Education in Cape Coast!

Ferdinand | EducationGhana | October 07 | Incredible 157 Schools to Shine in the 2024 NSMQ Championship, Unleashing the Power of STEM Education in Cape Coast!

The 2024 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) Championship will feature a record 157 schools, the highest participation in its history. Set to take place from October 14 to October 30 in Cape Coast, the competition promotes STEM education and offers mentorship sessions for participants.

A record-breaking 157 schools are set to participate in the 2024 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) Championship, marking the highest number of competitors in the competition’s history. The much-anticipated quiz will take place from October 14 to October 30 in Cape Coast, Central Region, following a launch event held in Accra on October 1.

Growing Participation

Among the participants, 126 schools will compete in the preliminary stage, including both government and private senior high schools. This year’s record turnout underscores the increasing interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines among students and educational institutions across the country.

Stephen Kwaku Owusu, Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), who launched the competition, emphasized the importance of embracing STEM education. He stated, “The NSMQ has proven to be a powerful platform for promoting STEM education and inspiring young minds. The Ministry of Education and GES encourage more schools to participate and seize this opportunity to showcase and improve the talents and knowledge of their students.”

Investment in STEM Education

Mr. Owusu highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing STEM education infrastructure and curriculum. He pointed out that the government is actively investing in initiatives aimed at encouraging students to pursue STEM careers. “Thus, we proudly support initiatives like the NSMQ that cultivate the skills and knowledge necessary for Ghana’s development,” he added.

Values of Teamwork and Healthy Competition

As the competition approaches, Mr. Owusu encouraged the participating teams to embody values such as teamwork, confidence, diligence, and healthy competition. “Let your participation make your schools and families proud,” he urged.

Potential of NSMQ

Nana Akua Mensa-Bonsu, Managing Director of Primetime Limited, the organization behind the NSMQ, expressed confidence in the quiz’s role in shaping future leaders in STEM fields. She congratulated all participating schools, especially the regional and zonal champions, as well as the six schools making their debut in this year’s championship.

Mensa-Bonsu urged schools to view the competition not only as a platform for academic excellence and awards but also as an opportunity for unity and growth. She noted the program’s success over the years and expressed optimism that this year would continue that trend, potentially leading to exciting surprises.

Mentorship and Scholarships

Continuing the tradition from previous years, this edition of the NSMQ will feature mentorship sessions, allowing participants to engage with professionals in science and technology. Since the introduction of these sessions under the STEM festival initiative in 2013, they have been instrumental in guiding students toward successful STEM careers.

This year’s competition promises over 15 prizes, awards, and scholarships for outstanding performers and participants, further incentivizing excellence among the young competitors.

As the countdown to the 2024 NSMQ Championship begins, anticipation grows for what is expected to be an exciting and educational experience for all involved.