The government has disbursed a total of GHS 9.5 million to ensure the continuation of the National Mathematics and Science Quiz (NSMQ), one of the country’s most celebrated educational competitions.
The move comes after the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) announced earlier this month that it would be unable to participate in the 2025 competition due to financial constraints.
The NSMQ, now in its 32nd year, has become a cornerstone for promoting excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) among Ghanaian youth. Since its inception in 1993, over 700 public and private senior high schools have participated, with the competition drawing nationwide attention each year.
The programme, organized by Primetime Limited, has been credited with inspiring a new generation of scientists, doctors, engineers, and problem-solvers across the country.
CHASS Threatened Withdrawal Over Funding Gaps
On Friday, October 3, 2025, CHASS released a statement citing a lack of funds as the reason for its intended withdrawal from the 2025 contest.
Many school heads voiced concern over the rising costs of preparing and transporting contestants, accommodation, and purchasing study materials.
According to CHASS, the average cost per school for participating in the NSMQ has risen by nearly 40% over the past five years, reflecting inflation and increased logistical needs.
Minister of Education Intervenes
Addressing the 63rd Annual Conference of CHASS in Sunyani, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu moved to allay concerns and reiterated the government’s commitment to science and mathematics education.
“The future of our education is about science and mathematics education,” Mr. Iddrisu stressed, highlighting the crucial role of STEM in achieving Ghana’s long-term development goals.
According to the Ministry of Education, just 24% of senior high school students currently specialise in science, underscoring the importance of encouraging broader participation.
The minister further disclosed that the government had released GHS 9.5 million to Primetime Limited, the organisers of the NSMQ, to clear outstanding arrears for the 2023 and 2024 competitions and to fully cover the 2025 programme.
“I personally edited and supervised the letter which was to go to the GETFUND for the release of the money, and I am certain that the money has so been released,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
He called on CHASS to reconsider its decision, insisting that with the funding secured, all secondary schools should participate fully.
“Therefore, I expect CHASS to fully participate in the NSMQ.
Accordingly, we have done our part and as the government, we will continue to do our part,” he stated.
Free SHS and Broader Educational Commitment
In his welcoming remarks, Reverend Father Stephen Owusu Sekyere, President of CHASS, commended the government for its ongoing support of secondary education, specifically referencing the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which has seen enrolment jump from 800,000 in 2016 to over 1.3 million in 2024, according to Ghana Education Service figures.
“The Conference recognises with appreciation the commitment of the government to sustaining the nation’s Senior High School Education, particularly through the Free SHS policy,” Rev. Fr. Sekyere said.
NSMQ’s Impact and Future
The NSMQ has, over the years, produced notable alumni who have excelled in academia, medicine, and technology both in Ghana and abroad. The competition is credited with boosting the profile of science education, with past champions such as Prempeh College, Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC), and Wesley Girls’ High School dominating the contest.
With government funding now secured for the next edition, the NSMQ is expected to continue its mission of nurturing scientific talent and fostering academic competition among Ghana’s youth.
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