22 SHSs in Ashanti Area Qualify for Quarterfinals of ACE Spoken Phrase Contest

Introduction

In a significant showcase of intellect and oratory prowess, twenty-two Senior High Schools (SHSs) across the Ashanti Region have advanced to the quarterfinals of the ACE Spoken Word Contest. This prestigious academic competition, designed to foster critical thinking and eloquence, has seen a surge in participation this year, highlighting a growing interest in spoken word poetry and public speaking among Ghanaian youth. Organized by ACE Consult in partnership with the U.S. Embassy, the contest serves as a vital platform for students to transition from being “soft-spoken” to becoming assertive communicators.

As the competition moves into its next phase, the focus shifts to the upcoming quarterfinals, scheduled for February. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the event, the qualifying schools, the pedagogical intent behind the contest, and what students can expect next.

Key Points

Background

The ACE Spoken Word Contest was introduced in 2024 following a needs assessment by ACE Consult, which identified a gap in the educational curriculum regarding self-expression.

The Genesis of the Initiative

Marilyn Owusu, the Executive Director of ACE Consult and American Corner Kumasi, noted that while many Ghanaian students possess high intellectual capabilities, they struggle with articulation. “We realised that most Ghanaian students are very soft-spoken. You can tell they are intelligent and capable, but expressing themselves becomes an issue,” Mrs. Owusu explained. Consequently, the initiative was expanded beyond merely assisting students with U.S. school applications to actively building their capacity for critical thinking and performance.

Competition Structure

The contest in the Ashanti Region is structured into four distinct phases to ensure rigorous competition:

1. Inter-school Contests: The initial zonal stage (recently concluded).
2. Quarterfinals: Scheduled for February.
3. Semifinals
4. Finals

Recently, a three-day festival was held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), featuring performances across nine zones, with three contests held daily.

Analysis of the Zonal Stage Results

The recent zonal level of the ACE Spoken Word Contest was keenly contested, resulting in a specific mathematical distribution of qualifiers. Understanding how the 22 schools were selected offers insight into the competitive nature of the event.

Pathways to Qualification

Contrary to a simple “winners only” format, the organizers adopted a meritocratic approach to ensure the most talented speakers advance:

• Outright Winners: 18 schools emerged as champions in their respective zones, securing automatic qualification.
• Best Runners-Up: 3 schools that narrowly lost their contests but achieved high scores were awarded “wild card” entries.
• High-Scoring Bonus: 1 additional school recorded a score higher than the aforementioned three runners-up, earning a spot despite not winning their zone outright.

This selection method ensures that performance quality, rather than just victory in a single match, determines advancement.

Qualifying Schools in the Ashanti Region

The following 22 schools have officially qualified for the quarterfinals:

• SDA SHS Bekwai
• Armed Forces SHTS
• Oasis Christian Academy
• KNUST SHS
• St Joseph Seminary SHS
• Bosomtwe Boys STEM
• T.I. Ahmadiyya SHS
• Kumasi High School
• Kumasi Academy
• Anglican SHS Kumasi
• Obuasi Secondary Technical School
• Osei Tutu SHS
• Our Lady of Grace SHS
• Kumasi Girls SHS
• The Ridge School
• Sakafia Islamic SHS
• Afua Kobi Ampem SHS
• Oppong Memorial SHS
• St Louis SHS
• Tweneboa Kodua SHS
• Asanteman SHS
• Yaa Asantewaa Girls SHS

Practical Advice for Participants and Schools

With the quarterfinals approaching in February, participating schools and students should prepare strategically. The contest tests more than just memorization; it evaluates spontaneous critical thinking and performance under pressure.

Preparation Strategies for Students

To excel in the upcoming rounds, students should focus on the following areas:

• Developing Eloquence: Practice speaking clearly and audibly. As noted by the organizers, moving away from being “soft-spoken” is a key objective.
• Critical Thinking: The contest requires students to think on their feet. Engage in debates and impromptu speaking exercises to sharpen this skill.
• Poetry and Rhythm: Familiarize yourself with spoken word poetry techniques, including rhythm, rhyme, and metaphor, to make presentations more compelling.

Benefits Beyond the Trophy

Students should view participation as a holistic development opportunity. Mrs. Owusu highlighted that the program is entirely free (“You don’t pay anything — you actually gain”). Furthermore, participants gain access to:

• Founders and Networking: Opportunities to connect with mentors from the U.S. Embassy and ACE Consult.
• Scholarship Guidance: Specific advice on cross-border education and applying for scholarships in the United States.
• Skill Transferable: The confidence gained here is applicable to academic presentations, university interviews, and future careers.

FAQ

Conclusion

The qualification of 22 schools to the quarterfinals of the ACE Spoken Word Contest marks a significant milestone in the development of oratory skills among Ghanaian youth. By providing a structured, supportive, and competitive environment, ACE Consult and the U.S. Embassy are addressing the critical need for assertive communication in the educational system. As these schools prepare for the February quarterfinals, the focus remains on cultivating eloquent, critical thinkers who can articulate their ideas with confidence on both local and global stages.