Ebusuapanyin Moses Kwesi Baiden Jnr, the President of the Mfantsipim Old Boys Association (MOBA), has made a significant contribution of GH₵111,100 to recognize and further support the Mfantsipim School’s National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) winning team. This act of generosity is intended to honor the outstanding accomplishment of the students while also fostering future endeavors in science and academics at Mfantsipim. A portion of the donation, amounting to GH₵50,000, was presented to the headmaster of the school and the coordinators of the NSMQ team in acknowledgment of their dedication to enhancing student success. Furthermore, each of the three winning contestants received GH₵15,000 to aid in their educational journeys, collectively amounting to GH₵45,000. An additional 14 team members who provided supportive roles, including research, were each awarded GH₵1,000, yielding GH₵14,000, while three drivers received GH₵700 each, totaling GH₵2,100.
The presentation of these generous donations took place during an event at the Margins ID Group office, hosted by Mr. Baiden Jnr, who is also the Chairman and Founder of the company. This gathering served as a moment for MOBA’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and the victorious NSMQ team to connect, celebrate, and express gratitude for the efforts that led to this triumphant achievement. Mfantsipim School recently emerged as the champion of the 2024 NSMQ after a narrow victory over St Augustine’s College, winning the contest by just one point. This victory marks the school’s third trophy in this prestigious competition, following their wins in 1999 and 2014. As winners, Mfantsipim School received gold medals and a cash prize of GH₵70,000, highlighting the significance of their achievement.
Following the celebration, Mr. Baiden Jnr expressed the widespread excitement within the MOBA community, noting that alumni from around the world are actively contributing funds to celebrate and support this accomplishment. Emphasizing the significance of this victory for the school, he acknowledged the NEC’s recognition of the need to allocate resources effectively for ongoing support of both the school and the students involved in the NSMQ. His commitment to a more sustainable and comprehensive approach to education is clear, as he seeks to create an environment that nurtures learning not only through quiz competitions but also in fostering talent in science and mathematics.
Mr. Baiden Jnr also pointed out the necessity of a sustainable partnership between MOBA and Mfantsipim School. He acknowledged the progress made thus far but underscored the importance of planning for the future to ensure a robust system that can withstand challenges. He described the establishment of several committees, chaired by NEC members, that oversee different facets of the school’s operations, including the NSMQ and long-term collaborations. With a focus on continuing Mfantsipim’s rich 150-year tradition of producing effective leaders through quality education, Mr. Baiden Jnr expressed the urgency of competing effectively against other educational institutions while reminding current students of the legacy of resilience and determination fostered by the school.
Acknowledging the historical significance of the institution, Mr. Baiden Jnr referred to the ideals of the founding members who strove to make quality education accessible and to cultivate a sense of African nationalism among students at the Methodist-led school. He reiterated that Mfantsipim School’s motto embodies the institution’s commitment not only to academic excellence but also to instilling pride and purpose among its students. To further advance their vision, he mentioned that the NEC has developed a strategic business plan, with the NSMQ being just one aspect of their broader goals. This plan includes initiatives for sporting excellence, creating an endowment fund, digitizing alumni networks, and strengthening connections among MOBA, the school, and the Methodist Church.
In a move to further involve the students, NEC members conveyed to the three contestants that they have been appointed as brand ambassadors for the school’s upcoming 150th-anniversary celebration, which is set to continue until 2026. Members of the NEC, who serve as presidents of various year groups, have also committed to fundraising efforts to enhance the NSMQ team. Official announcements regarding these contributions are expected to be made during the school’s Speech and Prize Giving Day. Encouraging focus and dedication, they reminded the students to act as role models for society. As a part of recognizing the achievements of the NSMQ team, Margins ID Group organized a celebratory lunch, reaffirming MOBA’s commitment to sustaining support for Mfantsipim School and its students.
