By Dorcas Stephens, GNA
Accra, July 3, GNA – Stakeholders have been urged to invest in nurturing young talents to strengthen educational outcomes and prepare the next generation for future national development.
The call was made at the media launch and balloting for the eighth season of the National Juniors Challenge (NJC), an educational quiz competition for basic school pupils that promotes academic excellence and intellectual development.
Mr Wisdom Larry Quarme-Doe, Chief Executive Officer of UniWIZ Foundation and Founder of the NJC, said creating opportunities for young people to develop their intellectual abilities was essential to building a knowledgeable and innovative society capable of addressing future challenges.
He said the competition had over the years served as a platform for talented pupils to demonstrate their abilities and prepare for higher academic competitions, including the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ).
“We had several students that have been through the National Science and Maths Quiz representing their secondary schools on other platforms. And for us, that is a plus,” he said.
Mr Quarme-Doe said diligence, credibility and transparency remained the guiding principles of the competition to ensure fairness for all participating schools.
“I mean, for one thing I don’t compromise on this programme is diligence and credibility. I always tell my staff that one thing I will not sell for anything is credibility,” he said.
Mr John Kumavor Ranson, Deputy Regional Education Director for the Greater Accra Region, said the Ghana Education Service remained committed to collaborating with organisations whose programmes contributed to improved educational outcomes.
“We, the GES, are ready to welcome any educational programme that we feel will help boost educational outcomes. So our doors are open to institutions with great ideas who want to invest in the future of the next generation,” he said.
Mr Ranson said the National Juniors Challenge complemented classroom learning by helping to identify talented students and develop their confidence, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Mr P. Prem Kumar, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Indus Life Sciences, said the company’s partnership with the competition formed part of its commitment to supporting education and youth development.
“The initiative for NJC relates well with us since it includes the growth and development of young minds.
“Indus Life Sciences is committed to investing in the next generation of academia through a long-term partnership to provide basic amenities and support to schools,” he said.
Organisers said this year’s competition had attracted 286 participating schools, with 46 qualifying for the national championship.
They said the competition currently operated in nearly 10 regions and was being expanded nationwide.
The eighth season of the National Juniors Challenge is scheduled to begin airing on July 4, 2026.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey