The National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) is a beloved competition that highlights the brilliance of students when it comes to math and science.
For many years, Prof. Elsie A. B. Effah Kaufmann has been at the helm of this prestigious event, serving as its longest-serving host. But what many might not know is that her dedication to the NSMQ nearly cost her her life.
In a recent interview on Starr Chat on Starr FM, hosted by Bola Ray, Prof. Elsie A. B. Effah Kaufmann shared a harrowing revelation about her commitment to the NSMQ.
The accomplished Biomedical Scientist has been moderating the NSMQ since 2006 and continues to do so, even as the competition celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, making it a remarkable 17-year journey.
During the interview, she disclosed that there was a time when her love for the NSMQ led her down a perilous path.
She confessed to moderating a staggering 76 NSMQ contests all by herself. What makes this feat even more astonishing is that she undertook this demanding role while battling illness. The toll this took on her health was so severe that it nearly took her life.
“I have thought about it as my responsibilities have increased now. I am now a Dean, and it’s a good thing I only do thirteen contests in a year now. The largest number of contests I have done in a year is 76, and the thing nearly killed me. It nearly killed me; I was ill in the middle of that program, and it was the year after that other quiz mistresses joined,” she revealed during the interview.
While the NSMQ community celebrated her unwavering commitment, there have been claims that Prof. Kaufmann favored certain schools over others during the competition.
Fans of schools like Prempeh College and Opoku Ware School have made these allegations. However, the Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana refuted these claims, asserting that she has no interest in any particular school.
“I don’t take sides; I have no interest in any school. I don’t know the contestants from anywhere. I am not interested in any school; when I get there, I am there to do a professional job. This is why you must be careful about slandering someone because without that reputation for fairness, I would not have lasted this long. If you’d like me to resign today, I would do so,” Prof. Kaufmann emphasized.
Prof. Elsie A. B. Effah Kaufmann’s dedication and passion for the NSMQ have not only made her a beloved figure within the competition but also a source of inspiration for many.
Her willingness to share her personal challenges and the sacrifices she made to support the NSMQ’s growth underscores her commitment to the pursuit of excellence in science and mathematics education. As the NSMQ continues to thrive, her legacy will forever be intertwined with its enduring success.
Source: GESHub.org
