Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 20: The three-day Master Trainers Program under the Chess-in-Schools (CiS) initiative concluded today at the auditorium of GSSS Mohanpura. The program, which began on March 18, aimed to empower participants with the necessary skills to introduce chess in primary classes and integrate it into school curricula, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities among students.
A total of 30 participants from across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, spanning from Campbell Bay to Diglipur, actively engaged in the training sessions. The program covered essential topics such as understanding the aspecgts of chessboard, differentiating chess pieces, fundamental chess terminologies, structured lesson planning, academic linkages of chess with education, 21st century skills and strategies to introduce chess effectively in primary classes. Through interactive learning, participants explored how chess can serve as an educational tool to enhance cognitive skills, logical reasoning, and strategic thinking in young learners.
The program concluded with a Rapid Chess Tournament, allowing participants to put their learning into practice in a competitive yet engaging environment. Parvesh from GSSS Champin, Nancowrie emerged as the winner, while Rajendran of GPS Loha Barrack and T. Mounica of PM Shri GSSS Sabari Junction secured the second and third positions, respectively.
The closing ceremony was graced by Mrs. Pushpa Devi Mishra, Principal In-Charge of GSSS Mohanpura, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Mohd. Irshad Ahmed, Assistant Director (PE/Sports), as the Guest of Honour. They distributed prizes and certificates to the winners and participants, applauding their dedication and enthusiasm for the Chess-in-Schools initiative.
Earlier in the day, participants presented demo classes in groups, using lesson plans to introduce chess pieces, basic terminologies and chess game to primary students. The Knights group, represented by Dr. B. Rajini of GMSSS Ferrargunj and T. Mounica from PM Shri GSSS Sabari Junction, was recognized as the best group for their outstanding presentation. The F2 group, represented by K. Maheshwar Rao of GSSS Prothrapur and Deepika of GMS Kanyapuram, was adjudged the second-best performer, while the Pawns group, represented by I. Sneha Ilayadarshini of GSS VK Pur Little Andaman and Parvesh of GSSS Champin, secured the third position for their unique presentation style.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in promoting chess-based learning in schools across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. By equipping participants with the tools to implement chess as a learning aid, the program aims to enhance students’ academic and cognitive development, paving the way for a brighter future.
