Ferdinand | EducationGhana | October 03 | WASSCE 2017-2023 Performance Report: A Comprehensive Look at Top SHS, Their History, Achievements, and Impact

The recently released WASSCE performance report from 2017 to 2023 has highlighted a select group of Senior High Schools (SHS) in Ghana that have consistently demonstrated academic excellence. While schools like St. James Seminary SHS have emerged as frontrunners, many other institutions across the country have also made significant strides in shaping both academic and extracurricular success stories.

Below is an in-depth examination of the top 20 schools as per Eduwatch’s 2024 report, their historical impact, WASSCE records, and contributions to the country.

1. St. James Seminary SHS – 98.78% Pass Rate

Region: Bono Region | Category: A
St. James Seminary SHS is a top-ranked Catholic boys’ school located in the Bono Region. It was established by the Catholic Church with the mission of combining strong academic instruction with deep moral and religious teachings.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): St. James has consistently achieved the highest WASSCE pass rates, with an impressive 98.78% in recent years, solidifying its position as the top-performing school in the country.
NSMQ Record: Although not frequently participating in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), the school is known for its exceptional academic strength.
Alumni Impact: The school has produced many prominent figures in the clergy, law, and medicine, contributing immensely to the nation’s development.

2. Our Lady of Providence SHS – 94.42% Pass Rate

Region: Bono Region | Category: A
Our Lady of Providence SHS, a Catholic institution for girls, has carved out a reputation for excellent academic and extracurricular performance.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): Consistently maintaining a pass rate above 90%, the school ranks second with 94.42% from 2017 to 2023.
NSMQ Record: Not a regular contender in the NSMQ, but academically resilient, especially in arts and humanities.
Alumni Impact: Graduates of the school have ventured into academia, civil service, and entrepreneurship, influencing various sectors in Ghana.

3. St. Augustine’s College – 94.36% Pass Rate

Region: Central Region | Category: A
St. Augustine’s College, one of Ghana’s most prestigious boys’ schools, was established in 1930 by the Catholic Church.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): A consistent performer with a 94.36% pass rate, St. Augustine’s has been a beacon of academic excellence.
NSMQ Record: The school is a formidable force in the NSMQ, winning the title in 2007 and 2019. They are consistently among the top 10 performers in the competition.
Sports & Entertainment: Known for excelling in athletics, soccer, and debate competitions.
Alumni Impact: Alumni include notable figures such as Kofi Annan (former UN Secretary-General) and many political and business leaders.

4. Odumaseman SHS – 93.43% Pass Rate

Region: Bono Region | Category: B
Odumaseman SHS, although not as famous as some other top schools, has shown remarkable academic improvement over the past few years.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): The school has climbed the ranks with a 93.43% pass rate, reflecting its commitment to academic improvement.
NSMQ Record: The school has participated but has yet to make significant waves.
Sports & Entertainment: They are known for regional-level sports achievements.

5. St. Roses SHS – 91.60% Pass Rate

Region: Eastern Region | Category: A
St. Roses SHS is a leading girls’ school with a history of producing top academic achievers.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): With a 91.60% pass rate, it continues to be a top destination for girls seeking quality education.
NSMQ Record: The school regularly competes in the NSMQ but has yet to win the ultimate prize.
Alumni Impact: Graduates from St. Roses have made significant contributions in sectors such as education, medicine, and the judiciary.

6. Wesley Girls’ High School – 88.96% Pass Rate

Region: Central Region | Category: A
Wesley Girls’ High School (WeyGeyHey) is one of the most prominent girls’ schools in Ghana, established in 1836 by the Methodist Church.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): Wesley Girls’ consistently ranks among the best schools with an 88.96% pass rate.
NSMQ Record: They have a strong NSMQ tradition, although they have yet to secure a win.
Alumni Impact: WeyGeyHey has produced powerful women leaders, including politicians, corporate executives, and academics, such as Ghana’s first female Chief Justice, Georgina Wood.

7. Holy Child School – 88.77% Pass Rate

Region: Central Region | Category: A
Holy Child School, founded in 1946, is a premier girls’ institution.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): Holy Child maintains an impressive academic record with an 88.77% pass rate.
NSMQ Record: Though not frequent winners, they regularly perform well in the NSMQ.
Alumni Impact: Many graduates have made significant contributions in public service and education.

8. Aburi Girls’ SHS – 88.32% Pass Rate

Region: Eastern Region | Category: A
Aburi Girls’ SHS, often referred to as “ABUGISS,” is a top-tier girls’ school located in the Eastern Region.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): With an 88.32% pass rate, the school continues to be a leader in female education.
NSMQ Record: They have been consistent participants in the NSMQ, showcasing their academic strength.
Alumni Impact: Notable alumnae include professionals in the legal, medical, and political arenas.

9. Notre Dame Seminary SHS – 87.73% Pass Rate

Region: Upper East Region | Category: A
Notre Dame Seminary SHS is a Catholic boys’ school known for academic rigor.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): The school has maintained a pass rate of 87.73%, placing it among the top academic institutions.
NSMQ Record: The school has been a regional champion in the NSMQ but has yet to secure a national title.
Alumni Impact: Many alumni are serving in the priesthood, education, and health sectors.

10. St. Peter’s SHS – 87.19% Pass Rate

Region: Eastern Region | Category: A
St. Peter’s SHS, popularly known as “Persco,” was founded in 1957 and is a boys’ Catholic school with a proud academic and NSMQ tradition.
WASSCE Performance (2017-2023): With an 87.19% pass rate, St. Peter’s remains a top academic institution.
NSMQ Record: The school has won the NSMQ three times, in 2000, 2005, and 2018, and is known for strong performances in STEM.
Alumni Impact: Many of its alumni have risen to prominence in academia, medicine, and politics.

11. Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC – Legon) – 86.79% Pass Rate

Region: Greater Accra | Category: A

History & Records:
PRESEC, located in Legon, Accra, was founded in 1938 by the Presbyterian Church of the Gold Coast. It is one of Ghana’s most prestigious boys’ schools and has a rich history of academic excellence and discipline.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
PRESEC consistently achieves high academic standards, with an 86.79% pass rate from 2017-2023. The school’s rigorous academic curriculum ensures students excel in subjects ranging from the sciences to the arts.

NSMQ Record:
PRESEC is a powerhouse in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ). They hold the record for the most NSMQ titles, winning seven times (1995, 2003, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2020, and 2022). This track record has cemented PRESEC’s reputation as one of Ghana’s top schools in science and mathematics education.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
PRESEC has a strong tradition in sports, excelling in athletics, soccer, and basketball. The school is also well-known for its choral music group, the PRESEC Legon Choir, which has gained national recognition.
PRESEC has produced numerous influential alumni, including Kwasi Kyei Darkwah (KKD), media personality; Tsatsu Tsikata, lawyer; and Prof. Nii Narku Quaynor, internet pioneer in Africa.

12. Sumaman Senior High School – 85.71% Pass Rate

Region: Western North | Category: B

History & Records:
Sumaman Senior High School, located in the Western North Region, is one of the lesser-known schools in Ghana that has quietly built a reputation for academic excellence.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
With an 85.71% pass rate in WASSCE, Sumaman SHS is steadily improving and demonstrating its potential to rise among the top schools in Ghana. Their performance in recent years indicates a focus on academic excellence and improving teaching methodologies.

NSMQ Record:
Though not a regular contender in the NSMQ, Sumaman SHS has been gradually improving in regional competitions.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
Sumaman SHS has regional success in soccer and athletics. The school has also produced a few notable alumni who are making strides in business and public service.

13. St. Louis Senior High School – 85.13% Pass Rate

Region: Ashanti Region | Category: A

History & Records:
St. Louis Senior High School, an all-girls school in Kumasi, was established in 1952 by the Catholic Church. The school is named after St. Louis, King of France, and has a strong tradition in the arts and sciences.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
With an 85.13% pass rate, St. Louis SHS has consistently maintained its position as one of the top girls’ schools in Ghana.

NSMQ Record:
Although not a dominant force in the NSMQ, St. Louis SHS has participated in the competition and occasionally made it to the national stages.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
St. Louis SHS excels in debating, drama, and sports, with a particular emphasis on volleyball and basketball. The school has produced notable alumni, including professionals in education, health, and business, who contribute to society in various capacities.

14. Opoku Ware School – 85.01% Pass Rate

Region: Ashanti Region | Category: A

History & Records:
Opoku Ware School (OWASS) was established in 1952 and is named after one of the Ashanti kings, Opoku Ware I. It is one of Ghana’s most respected Catholic boys’ schools and is located in Kumasi.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
With an 85.01% pass rate in WASSCE, Opoku Ware consistently ranks among the top boys’ schools in Ghana, excelling in both academic and extracurricular activities.

NSMQ Record:
OWASS is a formidable contender in the NSMQ, having won the competition twice (1997 and 2002). The school remains competitive in every edition of the quiz and is known for its intellectual rigor.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
Opoku Ware School excels in sports such as basketball, soccer, and athletics. The school has produced several distinguished alumni, including Dr. Kwabena Duffuor, former Finance Minister of Ghana; and Hon. Akwasi Amankwaa Afrifa, former military head of state.

15. Jinijini Senior High School – 84.36% Pass Rate

Region: Bono Region | Category: B

History & Records:
Jinijini SHS, located in the Bono Region, is not as well-known as the top elite schools but has steadily improved its academic standing.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
Jinijini SHS has shown a remarkable 84.36% pass rate in WASSCE, reflecting the school’s dedication to academic excellence.

NSMQ Record:
Though not a regular competitor in the NSMQ, Jinijini SHS has made strides in local science and math competitions, indicating a growing emphasis on STEM education.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
The school has excelled in regional soccer and athletics. Alumni from Jinijini SHS have made strides in regional public service and education.

16. Mfantsipim School – 83.69% Pass Rate

Region: Central Region | Category: A

History & Records:
Mfantsipim School, established in 1876, is one of the oldest and most prestigious boys’ schools in Ghana. It is often referred to as “The School” due to its long history of excellence in academics and leadership.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
Mfantsipim consistently ranks high in academic performance, with an 83.69% pass rate in WASSCE. The school’s academic standards have remained solid for decades.

NSMQ Record:
Mfantsipim is a dominant force in the NSMQ, having won the competition twice (1999 and 2014) and consistently reaching the final stages.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
Mfantsipim has a proud tradition in sports, particularly in soccer, basketball, and track and field. The school has produced notable alumni such as Kofi Annan (former UN Secretary-General), and many business leaders, politicians, and professionals across different sectors.

17. Adisadel College – 83.33% Pass Rate

Region: Central Region | Category: A

History & Records:
Adisadel College (Adisco) was established in 1910 and is one of the oldest boys’ schools in Ghana. Located in Cape Coast, the school is well known for its academic prowess and strict discipline.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
With an 83.33% pass rate, Adisadel consistently ranks among the top academic institutions in Ghana, particularly excelling in the sciences and arts.

NSMQ Record:
Adisco is a major contender in the NSMQ, having won the competition in 2016 and reaching the finals on several occasions.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
Adisadel is renowned for its sporting achievements, especially in track and field, rugby, and basketball. The school’s alumni network is vast, including notable figures like Komla Dumor (BBC journalist) and Hon. Kwame Nkrumah-Acheampong (Ghana’s Winter Olympian).

18. Berekum Presbyterian Senior High School – 82.16% Pass Rate

Region: Bono Region | Category: B

History & Records:
Berekum Presbyterian SHS, located in the Bono Region, is a mission school with a focus on academic discipline and religious values.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
With an 82.16% pass rate, the school has made impressive strides academically, ranking it among the best in the Bono Region.

NSMQ Record:
While not a dominant force in the NSMQ, Berekum Presby SHS has competed in regional quizzes and is strengthening its science and mathematics curriculum.

Sports, Entertainment & Alumni Impact:
The school excels in regional sports and has a growing alumni base contributing to education, agriculture, and public service.

19. Bechem Business College – 81.94% Pass Rate

Region: Ahafo Region | Category: C

History & Background:
Bechem Business College, located in Bechem in the Ahafo Region, was established to cater primarily to students with a keen interest in business and commercial studies. The school has since broadened its curriculum to include general education, although it remains known for its focus on business-related courses.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
Over the years, Bechem Business College has steadily improved its academic outcomes, achieving an impressive 81.94% pass rate from 2017 to 2023. The school has become a top contender in the region, especially excelling in subjects like Business Management, Financial Accounting, and Economics.

NSMQ Record:
Bechem Business College is not a regular participant in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) due to its focus on business studies, which naturally limits its involvement in science-heavy competitions. However, the school has competed in regional academic contests, particularly in commerce-related quizzes, where it has shown promise.

Sports & Extracurricular Activities:
The school has a growing reputation for sports, particularly in soccer and athletics. They frequently participate in inter-school sports competitions within the region and have won several regional trophies in soccer and volleyball.

Entertainment & Cultural Activities:
Bechem Business College hosts annual cultural and entertainment events, which showcase the talents of students in drama, music, and dance. The school also organizes business fairs and entrepreneurial events, helping students develop their skills in finance, business management, and marketing.

Alumni Impact:
Though relatively young compared to some of the more established schools, Bechem Business College has produced graduates who have made their mark in business and entrepreneurship across the region. Many of its alumni hold positions in the banking, finance, and corporate sectors in Ghana. The school’s alumni network is gradually growing in strength and influence, with many former students contributing back to the school through mentoring programs and donations.

Academic Reputation & Future Prospects:
Despite being classified as a Category C school, Bechem Business College is steadily gaining recognition for its quality of education and its commitment to improving academic performance. The school’s leadership continues to implement reforms aimed at further improving both academic and extracurricular outcomes.

20. Terchire Senior High School – 80.58% Pass Rate

Region: Ahafo Region | Category: C

History & Background:
Terchire Senior High School is situated in the Ahafo Region of Ghana. As a relatively young school, it has been steadily growing both in size and in its academic reputation. The school was established to provide secondary education opportunities to students in the rural parts of the region, and it has gradually developed a reputation for discipline and academic rigor.

WASSCE Performance (2017-2023):
Terchire Senior High School’s performance in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) has improved remarkably over the years. With an 80.58% pass rate from 2017 to 2023, the school is emerging as one of the region’s top academic institutions, with particular strengths in the arts and sciences. Students have consistently performed well in core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Integrated Science, making the school a rising academic force.

NSMQ Record:
Terchire Senior High School has not been a regular competitor in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), primarily due to its relatively smaller size and focus on building its foundational academic programs. However, the school has been participating in local and regional quizzes to enhance its academic standing in science and math.

Sports & Extracurricular Activities:
Terchire SHS has a well-rounded extracurricular program, with students actively participating in sports, particularly soccer, athletics, and volleyball. The school has won several regional sports trophies and continues to foster a competitive sporting culture among its students.

Entertainment & Cultural Activities:
Culturally, Terchire SHS places a strong emphasis on preserving local traditions, and students regularly participate in cultural festivals and events. The school organizes an annual cultural day where students showcase traditional dances, music, and drama. These events are crucial for the school’s community spirit and foster a sense of pride among students and staff alike.

Alumni Impact:
Though the school is still in its formative years, Terchire Senior High School is beginning to produce alumni who are making strides in various fields, particularly in education and public service. Alumni involvement in the school is on the rise, with many contributing to infrastructure development and mentoring current students.

Academic Reputation & Future Prospects:
Terchire SHS, though currently a Category C school, has shown immense potential for growth. The school’s leadership is committed to improving its academic offerings and building its reputation as a center of excellence. With continued focus on academic improvement and extracurricular development, Terchire SHS is poised to become one of the leading schools in the Ahafo Region.

Conclusion

Through their relentless pursuit of academic and extracurricular excellence, these schools continue to shape the future of Ghana’s youth. The 2017-2023 WASSCE performance data provides a snapshot of the progress made in senior high school education, but it also sheds light on schools that may not be household names but are quietly making a significant impact. The varying performances and histories also highlight the importance of focusing on academic results and the holistic development of students across all regions and categories.