Meet Paul Azure: The Last OWASS Hero to Win NSMQ, Now Making Waves as a Musician

Meet Paul Azure: The Last OWASS Hero to Win NSMQ, Now Making Waves as a Musician

  • Paul Azunre, who led Opoku Ware School to the 2002 NSMQ trophy, is now a renowned scientist and musician known as Dr Pushkin
  • He has contributed to AI and machine learning research, focusing on tools for African languages and promoting digital inclusion
  • Blending creativity and science, Paul incorporates hip-hop, Afro-fusion, and poetic lyricism and uses his music to tell African stories

Former NSMQ contestant Paul Azunre first rose to prominence in 2002 when he led Opoku Ware School (OWASS) to victory in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ).

Owass, Paul Azunre, Ghana, Kumasi, NSMQ, Stephen Baah
Opoke Ware School's last NSMQ hero, Paul Azunre, turns his passion for science and sound into a music career. Image credit: Dr Pushkin
Source: Twitter

That rare win marked a major milestone for OWASS; little did they know it would be their last to date.

After his outstanding academic performance in high school, Paul Azunre continued his educational journey, pursuing a career in engineering and eventually earning advanced degrees abroad.

His eagerness for problem-solving and innovation led him into research in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

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Over the years, the former NSMQ champion has become known not only as a scientist but also as an advocate for developing AI tools for African languages.

His mission is to make technology more accessible to local communities and to preserve linguistic heritage through digital innovation.

OWASS misses Paul, who is the last contestant to win the NSMQ for Opoku Ware School in 2002.

He now has a real impact in the real world, combining hip-hop and Afro-fusion, creating music that celebrates African culture and inspires creativity across generations.

OWASS' NSMQ hero: Paul Azunre's musical journey

After all his achievements in science, Paul Azunre extended his creativity into music under the stage name Dr Pushkin.

He began exploring his love for music, using it as a bridge between science, culture, and storytelling.

Paul's genre blends hip-hop, Afro-fusion, and poetic lyricism, reflecting both his analytical mind and his deep cultural roots.

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Many of his songs highlight social themes, self-awareness, and African identity, earning him respect among music lovers who appreciate thoughtful art.

Paul’s unique combination of science and music showcases his versatility.

His background as an NSMQ champion is evident in the precision and discipline of his work, while his music displays emotional depth and creativity.

He has performed on major stages, collaborated with other artists, and used digital platforms to share his story with a growing global audience.

Paul Azunre continues to inspire both young scientists and aspiring musicians through his unique approach.

His journey from the NSMQ stage to international recognition as Dr Pushkin proves that intelligence and artistry can coexist beautifully.

NSMQ, Stephen Apemah Baah, Ghana, Mfantsipim, 2025, OWASS, St Augustine's
John Kusi and Stephen Apemah Baah of OWASS are distraught after falling short in the 2025 NSMQ final. Photo credit: @NSMQ Ghanna/X, @Joy News/Facebook
Source: Twitter

Stephen Apemah Baah sad after NSMQ loss

YEN.com.gh also reported that Stephen Apemah-Baah, after Opoku Ware School once again fell short in the 2025 NSMQ final, appeared visibly upset.

Mfantsipim School maintained their lead through the fourth and fifth rounds, securing victory, with OWASS unfortunately ending in last position.

An emotional moment captured Stephen's sad facial expression after the quiz ended, with many sad that his NSMQ dream would not be achieved.

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
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Blessed Antwi (Editorial Assistant) Blessed Antwi is a Ghanaian digital media professional and Editorial Assistant at Yen.com.gh. He has over 5-years of experience in content writing, SEO, and visual storytelling, with experience in entertainment, sports, and political reporting. Blessed has worked with platforms such as Ghcelebinfo, Opera News, Vimbuzz, OccupyGh, and Scooper News. You can reach him on blessed.antwi@yen.com.gh.