Presbyterian Boys’ SHS Crowned Champions of the 2024 National Investment Quiz Competition
The grand finale of the 2024 National Investment Quiz Competition unfolded in spectacular fashion on Friday, 15th November, at the Amargeshie Hall, University of Ghana Business School. Four of Ghana’s brightest schools—Prempeh College, Presbyterian Boys’ SHS (PRESEC), St. Augustine’s College, and St. John’s Grammar School—battled it out for the prestigious title.
The competition, which promotes financial literacy and investment knowledge among young people, reached a crescendo in an electrifying atmosphere, with supporters chanting and cheering their teams. Broadcast live on Max TV and on their online platforms, the event captivated audiences nationwide, cementing its reputation as a cornerstone of youth financial education.
The Journey to the Grand Finale
Each finalist came with a unique narrative. Prempeh College, the defending champions, sought to secure back-to-back victories after dominating earlier rounds with an impressive average of 45 points.
Presbyterian Boys’ SHS, last year’s runners-up, entered with a mission to reclaim glory after narrowly losing the 2023 title by 0.5 points. With the highest score of 66 in this year’s competition, PRESEC posed a formidable challenge.
St. Augustine’s College, making their maiden appearance, impressed many with scores consistently above 50 points. Their performance as Central Region champions showcased their potential to claim the title.
Meanwhile, St. John’s Grammar School, initially seen as an underdog, defied expectations by excelling in the riddle round and earning a spot in the finale.
The Contest Unfolds
The finale comprised five rigorous rounds, with 90 points at stake. Each round tested the participants’ knowledge, analytical skills, and composure under pressure.
Round 1: The Financial Knowledge
The competition began with a general knowledge round. St. Augustine’s College took an early lead with 16 points, followed closely by Presbyterian Boys’ SHS with 15 points.
Prempeh College and St. John’s Grammar School trailed with 13 and 12 points, respectively.
Round 2: Case Study
The second round challenged schools to analyze complex investment scenarios. St. Augustine’s College displayed remarkable accuracy, maintaining their lead with a perfect score in this round. Presbyterian Boys’ SHS held their ground in second place, while St. John’s Grammar and Prempeh College competed closely.
Scores after Round 2:
- Augustine’s College: 34
- Presbyterian Boys’ SHS: 30
- Prempeh College: 25
- John’s Grammar School: 24
Round 3: Investment Advisory
The investment advisory session saw schools present solutions to financial challenges, followed by a Q&A session with judges. St. John’s Grammar excelled in this round, earning the highest score of 13.8 points. Presbyterian Boys’ SHS edged closer to St. Augustine’s College, while Prempeh College and St. John’s Grammar tied for third place.
Scores after Round 3:
- Augustine’s College: 44.9
- Presbyterian Boys’ SHS: 41.9
- John’s Grammar School: 37.8
- Prempeh College: 37
Round 4: True or False
This round proved pivotal. St. Augustine’s College stumbled, answering three consecutive questions incorrectly, which dropped them to third place. Presbyterian Boys’ SHS capitalized on this opportunity, taking the lead. St. John’s Grammar School, known for their resilience, surged into second place, leaving Prempeh College struggling to keep pace.
Scores after Round 4:
- Presbyterian Boys’ SHS: 53.9
- John’s Grammar School: 49.8
- Augustine’s College: 46.9
- Prempeh College: 43
Round 5: The Riddle Round
The final round brought the competition to a dramatic climax. With 25 points up for grabs, tensions soared. PRESEC answered the first riddle correctly, earning three points and solidifying their lead. St. Augustine’s College scored four points on the third riddle, but PRESEC’s consistent performance, answering another riddle correctly, sealed their victory.
St. John’s Grammar School’s strength in riddles kept the competition close, but they couldn’t surpass PRESEC’s lead. Prempeh College’s efforts to close the gap fell short.
A Triumphant Victory
When the final scores were announced, Presbyterian Boys’ SHS emerged as champions with 59.9 points, reclaiming the title they last won. St. John’s Grammar finished second with 49.8 points, St. Augustine’s College placed third with 46.9 points, and Prempeh College, the defending champions, came fourth with 43 points.
The hall erupted in jubilation as PRESEC supporters celebrated their hard-earned victory. Teachers, students, and alumni sang their school anthem in unison, marking a triumphant moment for the Ɔdadeɛ fraternity.
Reflections and Future Impact
While PRESEC claimed the ultimate prize, all finalists demonstrated exceptional knowledge, determination, and resilience. The competition underscored the importance of financial literacy, teamwork, and critical thinking, leaving a lasting impact on participants and audiences alike.
The National Investment Quiz Competition, organized by the Young Investors Network and proudly sponsored by the Ghana Stock Exchange and the Securities and Exchange Commission, continues to be a beacon of youth empowerment and education. It equips students with practical investment knowledge, fostering a financially literate generation.
Congratulations to all participating schools for making the 2024 edition a resounding success. The future of Ghana’s financial sector looks brighter with these young minds leading the way.
“It can work, and it will work if we all work towards it.”
By: Ahmed Tahiru
