The 2024 National Science and Math Quiz (NSMQ) finals delivered a highly anticipated and electrifying showdown as Mfantsipim School broke their ten-year drought to clinch the trophy. Competing against Keta Senior High Technical School (SHTS) and St. Augustine’s College, Mfantsipim showcased remarkable skill and determination, winning by a single point in the last round. Their victory not only granted them bragging rights but also reignited the pride of their supporters who had waited for a decade.
Keta SHTS, the fans’ favorite, was widely predicted to win this year, especially given their impressive performance reaching the finals in last year’s edition. They were the only school from last year’s final to make it again to this year’s, making them a strong contender in the eyes of many. Despite the support, Keta SHTS couldn’t maintain the lead and ultimately finished in third place. However, they earned respect from fans for their resilience and inspiring journey to the finals.
The contest began with a fiercely competitive first round. By the end of Round 1, both Mfantsipim School and St. Augustine’s College were neck and neck with 24 points each, while Keta SHTS trailed with 13 points. This set the stage for an intense battle.
In Round 2, St. Augustine’s College pulled ahead with 34 points, with Mfantsipim School close behind at 31 points, while Keta SHTS saw a slight dip to 12 points. The Problem of the Day challenged all three teams, with St. Augustine’s scoring 5 out of 10, Keta 4, and Mfantsipim 3. Each point was hard-earned, highlighting the sharp minds and quick thinking of the contestants.
By the end of Round 4, St. Augustine’s maintained their lead with 46 points, just ahead of Mfantsipim at 44, and Keta SHTS with 26 points. The contest, however, took a dramatic turn in the final round. Mfantsipim surged ahead, finishing with 47 points, edging out St. Augustine’s by one point, while Keta SHTS ended at 32 points.
Mfantsipim’s victory was celebrated as a comeback story and a testament to persistence, skill, and teamwork. The NSMQ finals not only entertained but also served as an educational experience for students, inspiring future participants to aim higher in science and math.
