From the Quiz Stage to Engineering Dreams: Samantha Ghartey Reflects on Her NSMQ Journey
- vanessa nordzi
- 14 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Samantha Ghartey was the first guest on the 2025 edition of the NSMQ Live Chat, which aired on March 13, 2025. Alongside her teammate Nellie Vorleto, Samantha proudly represented Holy Child School at the 2020 National Science & Maths Quiz, competing against Opoku Ware School and Wesley Girls’ High School in the Quarter-final Stage. Although Holy Child’s journey ended at that stage, their performance earned them the Newmont Award for Best Performing Girls’ School, a testament to their brilliance and determination.
During her interview on the NSMQ Live Chat, Samantha shared some of her fondest memories with the audience. She recalled how staying up late to study and having sleepovers in the lounge made her feel special.
"I felt like a little celebrity on campus. I got some special favours and encouragement from my peers," she stated.
Speaking about her favourite contest, she admitted that she wanted Adisadel College to win the finals against Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School, but much to her dismay, PRESEC won.
"We wanted ADISCO It was because of Mbebo Nonna. He had a special effect on me and my team," she said.
Samantha described Opoku Ware as their toughest competition.
"They knocked us out in the quarter-finals. Their speed during the Speed Race round gave them the edge," she explained.
Despite not progressing to the Semi-final Stage, Samantha believed the Newmont Award affirmed their efforts.
"Even though we were evicted earlier than we had anticipated, winning the Newmont Award for “Best Performing Girls’ School” made us feel we had done something right," she furthered.
Samantha also spoke about how the NSMQ had shaped her character and approach to life.
"The NSMQ taught me time management, perseverance and grit. It teaches you teamwork and how to stay focused regardless of the distractions around. I know how to manage my time well now," she stated.
Beyond the classroom, Samantha enjoyed playing the drums and reading literature. She admitted she was not initially a serious student, but participating in the NSMQ changed her perspective.
"It helped me enjoy learning and taught me how to work under pressure. It also helped me with group projects at university because of the teamwork I experienced during the competition." She disclosed.
Looking ahead, Samantha revealed her desire to set up a business with like-minded individuals in the fields of electrical and mechanical engineering. She does not see herself in a traditional nine-to-five role. She also expressed a strong desire to return to Ghana after her studies.
"Home is where my heart is. I want to come back to the good food, feel the sun on my face and help my people with the knowledge I’ve acquired abroad," she said.
In her closing remarks, Samantha offered a word of advice to future NSMQ participants.
"Stay focused. Being part of the NSMQ opens doors of opportunity," she stated.
Checkout the link below to watch her full interview;
