The Seychelles Chess Federation (SCF) has taken a significant step towards promoting the game of chess in the country by distributing chess equipment received from the Olympic Committee. The distribution of equipment began in English River, Belonie, Anse Royle, and Point Larue. Additionally, the SCF has provided chess equipment to the Exile Club, which already has its own chess club.

On Wednesday, July 19th, the federation visited Ile Perseverance Secondary School, where they submitted chess equipment. Benjamin Hoareau, the Chairman of the SCF, expressed the federation’s aim to spread chess in society and ensure that every school has a chess club. This initiative is a testament to their commitment to promoting the game and its benefits.

Bernard Joliecoeur the Deputy Head Teacher of Ile Perseverance Secondary School, expressed his gratitude towards the Chess Federation for their kind gesture. He believes that the chess equipment will help the students reach new heights and encourages them to make good use of it. Joliecoeur emphasizes that the goal is not just to play chess but to compete for the top spot, fostering healthy competition among the students.

Andrew Nyendwa, a chess coach and teacher at PSCE, highlights the potential of chess as a tool for personal and intellectual development. He believes that this gesture by the SCF will help them recruit more members and expand the reach of chess in the community.

Anil Antoine, a student at Ile Perseverance Secondary School, shares his experience of how playing chess started as a part-time activity but gradually developed into a skill. He expresses his gratitude towards the Chairman of the SCF, Sir Nyendwa, and the Librarian, Miss Margrette, for the opportunity they have given to the Ile Perseverance Secondary School Chess Club.

The SCF plans to visit several other schools in the coming days to distribute chess equipment and encourage the formation of chess clubs. The remaining schools on their list include Plaisance, Praslin, Independent School, Cascade Primary, Mont Fleuri, and Beau Vallon. Beau Vallon School has recently announced the introduction of a chess club, and the SCF encourages the organizers to bring more students into the world of chess.

With the distribution of chess equipment and the formation of chess clubs in schools, the SCF is taking significant steps towards popularizing the game of chess in Seychelles. This initiative will not only provide students with a new skill but also foster critical thinking, strategic planning, and healthy competition. The SCF’s efforts to spread chess in society are commendable, and it is hoped that more students will embrace the game and benefit from its numerous advantages.