The powerhouse Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) once again proved why they are giants in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) championship race.

On Thursday, October 24, at the SGS Auditorium in Cape Coast, the defending champions showed unmatched brilliance and tenacity, locking horns with two formidable contenders—St. James Seminary Senior High School and Pope John Senior High School and Minor Seminary in a battle for a coveted semi-final slot.

This was not just any quiz. It was an electrifying contest of wits, knowledge, and razor-sharp strategy, with every question sparking intense competition. But the Presecans, seasoned champions and eight-time winners, came fully prepared to defend their crown, putting on a jaw-dropping display of academic prowess.

These three seeded schools had already brushed aside their opponents in the one-eighth stage, setting the stage for this high-stakes showdown. And what a showdown it was! With tensions rising, the contest witnessed heart-stopping twists that kept the audience on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.

PRESEC emerged victorious, scoring 59 points with grit and determination, proving once again that they are a force to be reckoned with. However, the valiant fight by Pope John Senior High School made every moment unforgettable, as they finished close behind with 46 points. St. James Seminary, though falling short with 31 points, delivered a commendable performance that highlighted their resilience and academic depth.

In the first round, the Presecans took an early lead with 26 points, as Pope John followed closely with 21 points, and St. James trailed slightly with 20 points. The competition was fierce, with supporters cheering loudly from the stands, creating an electric atmosphere.

The second round was even more intense, with PRESEC standing tall and capitalising on bonuses that came their way. Their precision earned them 38 points, but Pope John was not far behind, amassing 30 points. St. James, despite their best efforts, found themselves trailing with 17 points.

The contest entered its critical phase in the third and fourth rounds, where the champions displayed incredible teamwork and academic mastery. PRESEC extended their dominance, surging to 50 points as the fourth round closed. Pope John’s 43 points kept them in the fight, while St. James held steady with 31 points, battling on with spirit and determination.

The fifth and final round saw Presbyterian Boys’ tighten their grip on the contest, staying sharp under pressure and leaving no room for errors. Their final score of 59 points sealed their place in the semi-finals and reignited their quest for a record ninth NSMQ trophy.

Despite Pope John SHS’s determined push to topple the champions, their 46 points were not enough to stop the PRESEC force. St. James Seminary, though bowing out of the competition with 31 points, showcased commendable effort in the face of such fierce opposition.

With this commanding victory, PRESEC has marched confidently into the semi-finals, keeping alive their dreams of securing a historic ninth NSMQ trophy and the ultimate bragging rights. Their triumph not only boosts their chances but also strengthens their reputation as one of the most formidable academic forces in Ghana.

The crowd roared in celebration as the Presecans basked in the glory of their hard-fought victory. With their eyes firmly set on the ultimate prize, they have once again demonstrated that the road to NSMQ glory runs through Legon!

Will PRESEC reclaim the championship and further cement their legacy, or will a new contender rise to challenge their reign? The stage is set, and the journey to NSMQ greatness continues!