In one of the most electrifying quarter-final contests of the National Science & Maths Quiz (NSMQ) 2025, the Ghana Secondary Technical School (GSTS) from Takoradi defied all odds to edge out the eight-time champions, Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC), Legon, by a single, heart-stopping point.
The contest, which also featured the impressive Our Lady of Grace (OLAG) SHS, will go down as one of the most thrilling matches of the tournament’s history.
The stakes were sky-high — a place in the semi-finals was on the line, and all three schools knew there was no room for error. From the very beginning, the energy in the studio was electric as supporters cheered on their favorites.
Round 1: A Tight Start
The opening round saw both GSTS and PRESEC locked in a fierce tie at 16 points each, with OLAG just behind on 13 points. The close margins hinted at the nail-biting contest that was to come.
End of Round 1:
- Ghana Secondary Tech. School: 16pts
- Presbyterian Boys’ Sec. School: 16pts
- Our Lady of Grace SHS: 13pts
Round 2: PRESEC Takes the Lead
In Round 2, PRESEC, Legon, represented by the formidable duo of Jesse and Jason, began to assert their dominance, climbing to 24 points. However, Cecil and Raphael from Our Lady of Grace SHS refused to be left behind, ending the round at 21 points, while GSTS, led by Praisegod and Hadir, followed closely with 18 points.
End of Round 2
- PRESEC, Legon: 24pts
- OLAG: 21pts
- GSTS: 18pts
Round 3: PRESEC Maintains Control
The third round continued PRESEC’s momentum as they stretched their lead to 28 points, followed by OLAG at 23 and GSTS still at 18. At this stage, it seemed as though the reigning giants from Legon were cruising to yet another semi-final berth.
End of Round 3
- PRESEC, Legon: 28pts
- OLAG: 23pts
- GSTS: 18pts
Round 4: The Comeback Begins
But GSTS had other ideas. The “Giants of the West” roared back into contention, narrowing the gap in Round 4. The scores stood at PRESEC – 38 points, GSTS – 30 points, and OLAG – 28 points. The comeback was brewing, and the tension in the auditorium was palpable.
End of Round 4
- PRESEC, Legon: 38pts
- GSTS: 30pts
- OLAG: 28pts
Final Round: The Giants Rise
In a breathtaking final round, GSTS stunned everyone with a masterclass in speed and accuracy, answering critical questions that swung the pendulum in their favor. When the final bell rang, the scoreboard told a story no one saw coming:
End of Contest
- GSTS: 39 points
- PRESEC, Legon: 38 points
- Our Lady of Grace SHS: 28 points
The crowd erupted as GSTS sealed their place in the NSMQ 2025 Semi-Finals, toppling the mighty PRESEC by a razor-thin margin. The auditorium echoed with chants and jubilation from the Western Region supporters, who proudly declared, “Market Circle is bigger than Madina Market!” — a symbolic celebration of Takoradi’s triumph over Legon.
A Historic Moment
This victory marks a monumental moment for GSTS, the only NSMQ champion ever produced from the Western Region. Their grit, determination, and unshakable belief saw them dethrone the tournament’s most decorated school and reclaim their place among Ghana’s scientific elite.
With their eyes now set on the semi-finals, GSTS carries the hopes of an entire region. As they prepare for the next challenge, one thing is certain — the Giants from Takoradi have reminded everyone that in the NSMQ arena, no name is too big to fall.
Published By: Justice Donkoh | GESHub.org
