NSMQ 2026: University Practice stages late comeback to retain seed as Presby SHS, Adeiso suffer one-point heartbreak

In a dramatic final round, University Practice Secondary School (University Practice) pulled off a late comeback to retain their seed in the 2026 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), overcoming a five-point deficit against Presby Senior High School (Presby SHS), Adeiso and Adiembra SHS. Presby SHS, Adeiso dominated the early rounds, leading 20 points after Round Two and extending their lead to five points after scoring a perfect 10/10 in the Problem of the Day. University Practice and Adiembra SHS trailed behind with 25 and 17 points respectively.

However, the tide changed in Round Four, with University Practice finding their second wind by correctly answering two out of four riddles, increasing their score to 44 points and surpassing Presby Adeiso's 43 points. Adiembra SHS played a crucial role in the late drama by securing one of the riddles, preventing Presby Adeiso from regaining the lead.

In the end, University Practice retained their seed with 44 points, while Presby SHS, Adeiso finished with 43 points and Adiembra SHS on 36 points. For Presby SHS, Adeiso, it was a close call, as securing the riddle picked by Adiembra would have qualified them. The 2026 NSMQ is produced by Primetime Limited and sponsored by various organizations, including the Ghana Education Service, Goil Plc, and Coronation Insurance.