World Chess Day 2024
Theme: Chess for Sustainable Development (Encouraging Intellectual Growth and Critical Thinking)
The celebration of World Chess Day 2024, themed “Chess for Sustainable Development,” aimed to promote intellectual growth and critical thinking among young individuals. The event, held at the Kids & Teens Resource Centre Hub in Akure and the Kajola Community in Ore, marked a significant effort to harness the educational and developmental benefits of chess.
The day commenced at 12 pm with a warm welcome address by Mr. Emeka, setting the stage for an engaging and insightful session. Each participant had the opportunity to introduce themselves, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community among the attendees.
Mr. Maxwell, an adept chess enthusiast, delved into the intricacies of the game, providing comprehensive guidance on playing chess. He elucidated the roles of each player and expounded on their strategic moves on the chess board, laying a strong foundation for the participants’ understanding and appreciation of the game.
Miss Hannah shed light on the origin of chess and its profound impact on the cognitive development of young individuals. She emphasized how engaging with chess can enhance mental vision and help deter addictive behaviors. This in turn instills valuable life skills and strategic thinking in the youth.
Meanwhile, at the Kajola Community in Ore, Mr. Samuel Oyibo imparted the knowledge of chess to adolescents and young people. Here he engaged them in a friendly competition that showcased their growing skills and strategic acumen.
The event successfully reached 50 adolescents and young people, with 30 male participants and 20 female participants. The inclusive participation underscored the universal appeal of chess and its potential to foster intellectual growth. Also, it fosters critical thinking among diverse demographics.
The World Chess Day 2024 celebration at the Kids & Teens Resource Centre Hub and the Kajola Community showed their commitment to leveraging the game of chess. The game of chess helps in nurturing the intellectual and strategic capabilities of young individuals. The game of chess is indeed a powerful tool in setting the stage for for Sustainable Development. (personal and societal).