Assin State College: Rising Through the Ranks in the National Science & Maths Quiz

Assin State College (ASCO), located in Assin Bereku in Ghana’s Central Region, has become a beacon of resilience and determination in the National Science & Maths Quiz (NSMQ) arena. While it may not be among the oldest institutions in Ghana, ASCO is quickly proving that ambition, focus, and teamwork can push any school into national prominence.

🔬 A Humble Beginning with Bold Aspirations

Initially established as a private institution in 2006 and absorbed into the public system in 2009, Assin State College began its NSMQ journey like many others—eager but under-resourced. Their early years in the competition saw them struggle to break through the preliminary rounds. But that didn’t stop them.

Over the past few years, ASCO has made significant progress in both regional and national competitions, earning admiration across the country for their fighting spirit.

🏆 Key Milestones in ASCO’s NSMQ Journey

✅ 2019: Breaking Through

• Qualified for the national stage with 38 points, beating contenders like Aggrey Memorial Zion SHS.

• This marked a new chapter for the school’s growing confidence.

✅ 2021: A Major Leap Forward

• Beat Ghana National College to secure the last Central Regional Championship slot.

• Reached the One-Eighth Stage, defeating University Practice SHS in a thrilling comeback.

• Media outlets praised the school for their unexpected but deserved performance.

✅ 2022: National Recognition

• Received the prestigious Dano Inner Strength Award for resilience and performance.

• Prize included products worth GH₵7,000, a plaque, and a GH₵10,000 scholarship to contestant Stephen Nyamekye.

✅ 2023: Competitive to the Core

• Advanced to the One-Eighth Round once again.

• Faced Achimota School in a tough battle and ended the contest with 30 points—showing consistency at a high level.

✅ 2025: So Close!

• Competed fiercely in the Central Regional Qualifiers.

• Narrowly lost to Mankessim SHTS by just 2 points in the final riddle round—underscoring how competitive ASCO has become.

💡 What Makes ASCO Stand Out?

🔹 Seeded School Recognition

Assin State College is now considered a “seeded school” in the NSMQ, meaning they consistently perform well enough to skip preliminary stages in some editions. This status reflects their growing reputation in the academic space.

🔹 Strong Community & Support

Teachers, students, and alumni actively support the NSMQ team. This culture of collaboration is one of the key reasons ASCO keeps moving forward.

🔹 Awards That Inspire

The Dano Inner Strength Award was more than a trophy—it was a statement. It validated the school’s efforts and showed Ghana that Assin State College is here to stay.

🚧 Challenges and the Road Ahead

ASCO’s journey isn’t without challenges. They still face:

• Limited access to advanced science equipment

• Gaps in learning resources compared to bigger, better-funded schools

• Inconsistent sponsorship and mentorship opportunities

But with every competition, ASCO learns, adapts, and grows stronger. With continued support from stakeholders, alumni, and the government, there’s no limit to what this school can achieve.

✊ Final Thoughts

Assin State College is not just competing—they’re inspiring. Their story is one of determination, underdog grit, and rising excellence. In the world of the NSMQ, they’re quickly becoming a name to watch.

If you’re looking for a school that proves progress is possible through hard work and heart, look no further than ASCO.