Road to Northern Sector PSBSAC Finals Begins as 8 Schools Qualify After Thrilling Quarter-Finals

The atmosphere at Kumasi Anglican Senior High School was nothing short of electrifying as the Northern Sector quarter-finals of the 2026 Perfect Series Basic School Assessment Contest (PSBSAC) unfolded in a colorful and highly competitive fashion.

A total of eleven schools battled fiercely for supremacy, showcasing remarkable academic excellence, critical thinking, and mastery of the updated educational approach. At the end of the contest, eight outstanding schools secured their places in the semi-finals scheduled for next week.

Leading the pack was Unique Educational Complex, Konongo Lowcost, which emerged as champions of the quarter-finals with an impressive 334.5 points. Closely following was Konadu Methodist Educational Complex with 329.5 points, while Reverence Preparatory School secured third place with 326.5 points.

Eldia Montessori School placed fourth with 320.5 points, and Bosomtwe STEM Academy came fifth with 299.5 points. The remaining qualifiers included O. A Legacy (259.5 points), Glitters Stars Academy (257.5 points), and Sunshine State Educational Complex (203.5 points).

Unfortunately, Royal Jewels Academy, Triumphant Royal Academy, and Precious International School were unable to progress, placing 9th, 10th, and 11th respectively.

Contest Gaining Momentum Each Year

Speaking after the contest, Head of the PSBSAC Examiners, Mr. Martin Opoku, expressed excitement about the steady growth of the competition

“Each year, right from the audition stage, you can clearly see that the contest is gaining momentum,” he noted.

He praised the learners for their exceptional performance at the quarter-final stage, describing it as “superb,” and expressed optimism that the semi-finals and grand finale would exceed expectations.

Shift from ‘Chew and Pour’ to Practical Learning

Mr. Opoku emphasized that the PSBSAC is aligned with the evolving educational direction in Ghana, moving away from rote learning popularly known as “chew and pour” to a more analytical, writing-based approach.

According to him, this method will help inculcate discipline, responsibility, and good citizenship among students, ultimately contributing to national development.

He further called on government and key stakeholders in the education sector to support the PSBSAC initiative.

“It is about time we prioritize education that solves problems, not one that encourages memorization,” he stressed.

Unique Educational Complex Eyes Ultimate Glory

Assistant Headmaster of Unique Educational Complex, Mahmoud Mohammed, expressed immense joy over his school’s performance.

He revealed that their participation in the contest aligns perfectly with the Ghana Education Service (GES) new curriculum. Reflecting on their journey, he noted that although they placed second last year, they had previously won the maiden edition.

“Last year, we missed the top spot by just 2.5 points. This year, there is no excuse—we are determined to win, whether at the Northern Sector or the national level,” he declared.

He attributed their success to effective school management and the use of Perfect Series textbooks, which he said enable students to learn independently even in the absence of teachers.

A Message to Defending Champions

Mr. Mohammed also sent a strong message to defending national champions, St. Theresa’s School.

“They won fairly last year, but the points still pain us. We are fully prepared for them this year,” he cautioned.

Road to the Finals

With eight schools now through to the semi-finals, the competition is expected to intensify. Only six schools will make it to the grand finale slated for April 1, 2026.

As the PSBSAC continues to grow in prominence, it is fast becoming a powerful platform for nurturing a new generation of problem-solvers and future leaders in Ghana’s education landscape.