Government Releases GHS 9.5 Million to Secure Future of National Science and Maths Quiz

The government has released a total of GHS 9.5 million to ensure the smooth continuation of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), one of Ghana’s most prestigious academic competitions.

The intervention 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 edition of the quiz due to financial challenges.

Now in its 32nd year, the NSMQ remains a vital platform for promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education across the country. Since its inception in 1993, the competition has attracted over 700 senior high schools, both public and private, and continues to inspire a generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

CHASS Raises Alarm Over Rising Costs

On October 3, 2025, CHASS issued a statement citing financial constraints as the reason for its planned withdrawal from the 2025 contest. School heads expressed concern over the increasing costs of training contestants, transportation, accommodation, and study materials.

According to CHASS, the average cost per school for participating in the NSMQ has increased by nearly 40% over the past five years, largely due to inflation and higher logistical expenses.

Government Responds to the Challenge

Speaking at the 63rd Annual CHASS Conference in Sunyani, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting science and mathematics education as a foundation for national development.

“The future of our education lies in science and mathematics,” Mr. Iddrisu emphasized.

He revealed that the government had disbursed GHS 9.5 million to Primetime Limited, the organisers of the NSMQ, to settle outstanding arrears from the 2023 and 2024 competitions and to fully fund the 2025 edition.

“I personally supervised the letter to GETFund for the release of the money, and I can confirm that the funds have been disbursed,” he said, urging CHASS to fully participate in the upcoming competition.

Acknowledging Government Support

In his remarks, Reverend Father Stephen Owusu Sekyere, President of CHASS, expressed appreciation for the government’s continued investment in secondary education, particularly through the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.

He noted that SHS enrolment has increased from 800,000 students in 2016 to over 1.3 million in 2024, a milestone attributed to the government’s educational reforms.

NSMQ’s Enduring Legacy

The NSMQ has produced many distinguished alumni who have excelled in academia, medicine, and technology, both locally and internationally. Notable past champions include Prempeh College, Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC), and Wesley Girls’ High School.

With funding now secured, the 2025 NSMQ is set to continue its mission of nurturing scientific excellence and fostering academic competition among Ghana’s youth, reinforcing its place as a cornerstone of STEM education in the country.