The second edition of a nationwide academic assessment initiative for basic school pupils is currently underway, with 14 schools from the southern sector competing in the quarterfinal stage.
The competition, which started in 2024, is designed to evaluate both learners and facilitators using critical thinking-based assessments rather than traditional rote learning formats.
Targeted at students in Basic 3 through Basic 6, the initiative aims to foster analytical thinking and encourage academic discipline among participants.
Speaking at the event, Pastor Philip Sarpong Chief Executive Officer of Perfect Media organisers of the contest disclosed that eighteen schools across the Greater Accra area are currently participating in the southern sector edition, while another 18 schools in the northern sector are set to begin their contest on June 12.
He said today’s contest will see 10 schools qualifying for the semifinals, leading to five finalists who will battle for the top spot in the southern sector.
The top three schools from both the southern and northern sectors will meet at the national finals in Kumasi.
The ultimate winner of the national contest will walk away with a cash prize of GHS 20,000, a 50-inch television, a refrigerator, and tablets for each student in the finalist group.
The second-place school will receive GHS 15,000, while third place gets GHS 10,000. The fourth, fifth, and sixth positions will also receive cash prizes of GHS 5,000 and GHS 3,000, respectively, alongside various educational incentives and awards.
Despite the program’s impact, Pastor Philip highlighted its financial demands, describing it as “highly capital intensive.”
He called on stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, to provide financial and logistical support.
“If I had the opportunity to meet the Education Minister today, I would recommend that the ministry fully back this initiative, it ignites a passion for learning and promotes deeper cognitive engagement among learners. This contest is not the regular kind of test. These are critical thinking questions that require learners to reason carefully before responding.”
The organizers Perfect Star Media says it hopes to make the contest an annual event but emphasize that sustained support is critical to its success.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
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