Government Steps In to Save the 2025 NSMQ

The government has released GHS 9.5 million to Primetime Limited, organizers of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), ensuring that the 2025 edition of the prestigious academic competition proceeds as planned.

This follows concerns raised by the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS), which announced earlier in October that it might *boycott the contest due to financial constraints affecting school participation.

The NSMQ, now in its 32nd year, is Ghana’s premier educational quiz that promotes excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among high school students. Since its launch in 1993, the competition has engaged over 700 schools nationwide and continues to inspire academic brilliance across the country.

CHASS Raises Alarm Over Rising Costs

On October 3, 2025, CHASS released a statement citing increased costs of preparation, transportation, accommodation, and study materials as major barriers to participation.

According to CHASS, the average cost per school has risen by nearly 40% in five years, largely due to inflation and logistical challenges. The group warned that without government support, several schools would have to opt out of the 2025 edition

Education Minister Intervenes

Speaking at the 63rd Annual CHASS Conference in Sunyani, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu assured school heads that the government remains committed to strengthening science and mathematics education.

“The future of our education is about science and mathematics,”
Mr. Iddrisu said, emphasizing the importance of STEM to Ghana’s development goals.

He revealed that the government had already released GHS 9.5 million to Primetime Limited through the GETFund to clear arrears for 2023 and 2024 and fully finance the 2025 competition.

“I personally edited and supervised the letter to GETFund for the release of the money. I am certain that the funds have been disbursed,” the minister affirmed.

He further urged CHASS to reconsider its decision, insisting that the secured funding guarantees smooth participation for all schools.

Free SHS and Continued Educational Support

In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Stephen Owusu Sekyere, President of CHASS, expressed gratitude for the government’s continued commitment to education, especially through the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which has seen enrolment increase from 800,000 in 2016 to over 1.3 million in 2024.

“The Conference appreciates the government’s dedication to sustaining senior high school education through Free SHS,” Rev. Fr. Sekyere said.

NSMQ’s Lasting Legacy

The National Science and Maths Quiz has produced countless alumni who have gone on to excel in academia, medicine, technology, and engineering worldwide.

Leading schools such as PRESEC-Legon, Prempeh College, and Wesley Girls’ High School have historically dominated the competition, inspiring future generations to pursue scientific excellence.

With this renewed funding, the NSMQ’s 2025 edition is set to continue its mission of nurturing scientific talent and promoting academic rivalry among Ghana’s youth.