09 Oct 2013

Botswana Chess Federation (BCF) president, Tshenolo Maruatona is in Estonia for this year’s World Chess Congress.

A press release from BCF stated that the congress, which started on October 3, was attended by over 180 members of the world chess body from across the world. The release said the congress provided a platform where key issues pertaining to the development of chess were discussed.  

Key priority areas for Botswana which the president will discuss included chess in schools commission, social projects commission, amongst others. Under the chess in schools commission, the release stated that Botswana had an opportunity to emulate most European countries by introducing chess as part of the school curriculum.

This followed empirical research on the positive impact of chess on the performance of students in academics. In this regards, the president would engage with those who are already running the programmes and appreciate best practises.

It said the president would further lobby with FIDE, World Chess Body, to visit Botswana and help the federation advance this course and that it is very important that Botswana receives the necessary training to run the chess in schools programme.

It says the Social Projects Commission is a commission that looks at how chess can be used as a social tool that include building character, rehabilitation, and promote chess as tool in the fight of HIV/AIDS.

The president is joined by African Zone 4.3 Chess President Mr Tshepo Sitale (Africa Chess Union). The congress comes to an end on October 10. Ends