Five Regions Advance to 2026 Literacy Challenge Semi-Finals After High-Stakes Opening Round

The 2026 Literacy Challenge Grand Finale commenced with high energy at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra on September 5, as 10 regional teams faced off in a series of grueling knockout heats. By the end of an intense first day, the field was narrowed to five, with the Volta, Greater Accra, Eastern, Northern, and Bono regions securing their places in the next stage of the prestigious competition. Organised by Channel One TV and Citi FM, the event seeks to promote reading, comprehension, and critical thinking among students across Ghana through rigorous academic testing.

The opening day featured several closely contested matches that evaluated the participants' general knowledge and mathematics skills. In one of the most competitive encounters of the day, the Northern Region narrowly defeated the Ashanti Region with a score of 62 to 58. The Northern team, comprised of Faheem Wumpini Alhassan, Abdul-Nasir Shamima Suhuyini, and Issah Abah Salsabila, showed remarkable composure under pressure to secure the win. Similarly, the Eastern Region, represented by Nuako Kwabena Adom Mireku, Nyamedom Appiakubi Appiah-Aboagye, and Stephanie Okyerewa Appawu-Gyamfi, secured a solid 54-36 victory over the Central Region. Other notable wins included the Volta Region’s triumph over the Upper West Region after a spirited performance by contestants Gabriella Maufemor Mensah, Samuel Danku, and Austin Deladem Agortse.

Beyond the academic rivalry, the event focused on fostering collaboration and friendship among the youth. Apiorkor Seyiram Ashong-Abbey, Head of Programmes Production at Channel One TV, highlighted the importance of the preparatory sessions held before the finale, noting that these sessions allowed contestants from diverse backgrounds to build lasting bonds. While the competition resulted in the elimination of teams from the Upper West, Upper East, Central, Ashanti, and Western regions, every participant was honored for their achievement. Students from the outgoing teams received participation certificates, medals, and various gifts in recognition of their hard work and regional representation.

As the competition enters its final phase, the remaining five teams will face a "Mega Challenge" designed to further stretch their intellectual capabilities and determine the ultimate champions. The stakes remain high, with contestants vying for a prestigious trophy, laptops, and certificates, while the final individual winner will walk away with a GH¢10,000 cash prize. Supported by sponsors including Deli and the Tema Oil Refinery, the 2026 Literacy Challenge continues to serve as a vital platform for academic excellence and youth empowerment in Ghana.