In what has become the most inspiring performance of the 2025 NSMQ regional qualifiers so far, Amaniampong Senior High School, located in Mampong, Ashanti Region, stunned many by scoring a remarkable 82 points — the highest recorded in the qualifiers to date.
But behind the school’s victory is a powerful story of resilience, dedication, and quiet strength—embodied in their quiz coordinator, Isaac Banyala Junior, a physically challenged teacher whose impact on the team has become the heartbeat of Amaniampong’s NSMQ journey.
Mr. Banyala, affectionately known by students as “Onipa,” has defied the odds by working long hours, sacrificing his comfort, and showing that true leadership transcends physical limitations. Contestants and supporters alike broke into cheers and lifted him high in celebration after the contest, not only for the school’s qualification to the nationals and zonals but also for the symbolic victory his commitment represents.
“Our coordinator is the best. He gives us all the books and equipment we need, and even when he punishes or scolds us, it pushes us to be better,” one contestant shared with pride.
The contestants recounted how Mr. Banyala would stay with them late into the night, sometimes from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, despite the physical demands of his condition.
“Even I couldn’t stay that long. Around 10 pm, I get sleepy, but he stays and teaches. He’s a very hardworking man.”
When asked how he felt hearing the students’ admiration, Mr. Banyala responded with humility and conviction.
“I feel good. These boys have done very well. Despite some obstacles, they’ve performed. I’m happy,” he said. “Disability is in the mind, not in the body. My mind is sound. The things I do, those with two legs may not be able to do. I am just like any other normal person, and that’s why I do my work perfectly.”
The contest itself showed Amaniampong SHS as a well-rounded team, peaking in almost every round. They secured 28 out of 36 points in the Speed Race and capped their performance with a clean sweep in the riddles round. Though they dipped slightly in the true or false segment, their final score of 82 points was more than enough to outclass Agric Nzema SHS (22pts) and Prince of Peace Girls’ SHS (18pts).
Now headed for the zonal championship, Mr. Banyala says his team is focused and undeterred by whatever draw they may face.
“A step at a time. We’re preparing for any school and praying that we can excel in the quarterfinals during the nationals.
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