Accra Academy Breaks NSMQ Semi-Final Jinx, Reaches Grand Finale for First Time
Accra Academy has made history by qualifying for the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) Grand Finale for the first time, ending a long-standing semi-final jinx.
The historic qualification came after an impressive performance in the semi-final, where Accra Academy topped a fiercely contested three-school competition with 54 points.
Bright Senior High School finished second with 44 points, while Achimota School placed third with 43 points.
Accra Academy took control of the contest from the opening round and maintained its lead throughout the competition, successfully holding off a strong challenge from both opponents to secure its historic place in the final.
The achievement marks a major breakthrough for a school that has endured several disappointments in previous editions of the prestigious academic competition.
Accra Academy had previously been eliminated at the one-eighth and quarter-final stages and had struggled to advance to the ultimate stage of the competition.
Among the school’s notable setbacks were semi-final defeats in 2016 and 2023, when it was eliminated by NSMQ powerhouse Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC-Legon) after closely fought contests.
The 2026 qualification therefore represents a significant milestone for Accra Academy, giving the school its first-ever opportunity to compete directly for the coveted NSMQ trophy.
Tough battle awaits in the final
Accra Academy will face a formidable challenge in the grand finale, where it will compete against two of the competition’s most successful schools — eight-time champions PRESEC-Legon and two-time champions St Augustine’s College.
While PRESEC-Legon brings considerable experience and an impressive record to the final, Accra Academy will be aiming to complete its remarkable run by winning the school’s maiden NSMQ title.
The 2026 NSMQ Grand Finale is scheduled to take place on September 10 at the University of Ghana, where the three schools will battle for the prestigious championship.
For Accra Academy, the final will be more than just another NSMQ contest — it will be an opportunity to cap a historic campaign by securing a first-ever national title.
