The National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) has once again captivated audiences with a series of thrilling contests, witnessing both the rise of formidable new challengers and the unwavering dominance of established champions. Recent matchups have delivered intense battles for quarterfinal and one-eighth spots, marked by dramatic upsets, close finishes, and record-setting performances.

One such nail-biting encounter unfolded at the SGS Auditorium, where Ghana Secondary Technical School (GSTS) secured a coveted quarterfinal berth in the 2025 NSMQ. They faced a fierce challenge from Nkwatia Presby SHS, affectionately known as the Kwahu Magicians, who particularly excelled in the riddle round, impressively picking three in a row and momentarily threatening GSTS's lead. Despite this pressure, the Western Zonal Champions maintained their composure, concluding the contest with 50 points. Nkwatia Presby SHS finished closely behind with 45 points, while Ashaiman SHS garnered 28 points. In the crucial Problem of the Day, GSTS scored a commendable seven out of ten, with both Nkwatia Presby and Ashaiman SHS each managing six out of ten. This victory propels GSTS confidently into the quarterfinals, where they aim to continue their strong run and pursue their championship aspirations.

In another dramatic turn of events, the NSMQ saw a respected giant fall, as Bishop Herman College, a seeded school, was dethroned by the fast-rising Our Lady of Grace Senior High School (OLAG). This contest, which also included Ejisuman SHS, began with an even first round, with Bishop Herman and OLAG tied at 18 points. Ejisuman SHS lagged with nine points. However, the dynamics shifted significantly in the second-round speed race, where OLAG asserted dominance, rapidly answering questions to build a commanding lead of 39 points, leaving Bishop Herman at 18 and Ejisuman at 17. Although OLAG encountered a slight setback in the problem-solving round, scoring only one out of ten compared to Bishop Herman’s five, their substantial lead from earlier rounds proved insurmountable. By the fourth round, OLAG had extended its lead to 50 points, with Bishop Herman on 36 and Ejisuman on 27. The final bell confirmed OLAG's decisive victory with 56 points, while Bishop Herman finished with 39 and Ejisuman with 27. This remarkable achievement marks only Our Lady of Grace’s second appearance in the NSMQ, yet they have already earned a place among the seeded schools, sending a clear message to Ghana’s traditional academic powerhouses.

Meanwhile, four-time champions Prempeh College reaffirmed their status as one of the NSMQ’s fiercest contenders with a commanding victory over Benkum SHS and Suhum SHS. Displaying unparalleled precision, speed, and teamwork, Prempeh College dominated every round, culminating in an impressive 62 points – the highest score recorded across all contests on that particular day. Suhum SHS offered a spirited fight, achieving 37 points, while Benkum SHS finished with 13 points. From the outset, Prempeh College established a strong lead, never relinquishing it. Their performance in the Problem of the Day was particularly outstanding, where they achieved a perfect ten out of ten, drawing widespread applause. This resounding win not only secures Prempeh College’s seeded status but also serves as a bold declaration to other championship hopefuls that the 'Amanfuo' are poised to conquer once more. As they advance to the one-eighth stage, their consistent energy, confidence, and composure underscore their objective: not just to compete, but to dominate.