Government releases GH¢9.6 million to NSMQ organisers as Haruna Iddrisu announces major reforms

The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has disclosed that the government has released GH¢9.6 million to Prime Time Limited, organisers of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), as part of efforts to strengthen the competition and address previous funding gaps.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 edition of the NSMQ in Accra, Mr. Iddrisu acknowledged past delays in support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting excellence in science and mathematics education.

He revealed that participation in this year’s contest has expanded significantly, with 174 schools competing — up from 156 last year. “This year, the competition has reached another milestone, featuring 174 participating schools. A significant expansion,” he said.

Mr. Iddrisu also proposed a review of the NSMQ format to include practical and research-based components. He emphasized that while the quiz has been highly effective in stimulating academic competition, integrating experimental and research elements could make it even more impactful.

“Beyond theoretical application, how do we reform the National Science and Maths Quiz to include some research and experiment as part of it? If that will dilute the essence, we can disregard it. But if it will improve the learning of Science and Mathematics, I’m all for it,” he stated.

As part of broader plans to decentralize science education resources, the minister announced his intention to establish a National Science and Mathematics Centre in northern Ghana. The proposed centre, he said, would serve students across the Bono, Northern, and Upper regions, who currently must travel to Accra — where the only existing centre is located — to access laboratory facilities.

“Our policy as a government is to encourage the teaching and learning of Maths and Science. I am exploring the opportunity to set up a national science centre in the northern half of Ghana, between Sunyani, Tamale, and Bolgatanga,” he disclosed.

Mr. Iddrisu further expressed concern over the poor state of science laboratories in many senior high schools, describing it as a major barrier to quality science education. He assured that the government would prioritize the rehabilitation and equipping of laboratories to improve practical learning outcomes.

“Many of you are studying under very difficult circumstances. No science laboratories; they are not adequately equipped to facilitate and enhance your learning. Government will look into that and improve the laboratories of many institutions,” he assured.

The Education Minister reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a new generation of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers through initiatives like the NSMQ, which continues to inspire academic excellence across the nation.