In a landmark initiative aimed at expanding chess education across the country, the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) launched its first chess training programme for teachers at the Abram Zuil Secondary.
This two-day training programme is made possible with the support of the country’s leading telecommunications provider, ENet, and the Ministry of Education’s Allied Arts Department.
Over 20 participants, including teachers from seven secondary schools in Region 2 and chess enthusiasts, are set to benefit from this training.
The opening ceremony saw the participation of GCF President Anand Raghunauth, who emphasized the federation’s goal to broaden chess education nationwide. Raghunauth explained that the programme is not just about teaching the teachers how to play chess but also equipping them with the skills needed to instruct the game at various educational levels.
“Today, we’re training some 20 teachers in learning the game of chess, but it’s not just about learning the game itself. It’s about developing the skills necessary to teach chess at the Grade 7, 8, and 9 levels in this part of the country,” said Raghunauth.
He also expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with ENet and the Ministry of Education, noting that while chess has seen significant growth in Georgetown, this initiative marks the first time the federation has ventured beyond Region 4 to train teachers.
Education Officer Saeed Zameen, representing the Ministry of Education’s Unit of Allied Arts, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded students. Zameen highlighted that the training programme aligns with the Ministry’s broader strategic objectives: “This initiative is fully aligned with the Ministry of Education’s goal to ensure that every student, before graduating secondary school, is exposed to a foreign language, a TVET subject, a sport, and a musical instrument.”
He further stated that the Ministry remains committed to supporting similar programmes in the future, ensuring teachers are well-equipped to return to their schools and successfully deliver instruction in these areas.
With this initiative, the GCF and the Ministry of Education aim to build a stronger foundation for chess education in Guyana, empowering teachers and students alike to embrace the intellectual benefits of the game.
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