FIDE EDU Commission, together with the Chess Federations of Zimbabwe and Nigeria, has kickstarted Promoting Africa: CIE Awareness Campaign project involving Preparation of Teacher (PoT) training and presentations for educators and decision-makers on how to implement chess as an educational tool in schools and universities. Spearheaded by Jerry Nash, Chairman of FIDE EDU, and Anzel Laubscher, EDU Commission member, this joint effort is funded by the national federations, FIDE EDU, and a generous grant from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
On arrival to Zimbabwe, Jerry and Anzel had a productive meeting with a group of local head teachers, who were receptive to the idea of chess as an educational tool in the classroom. They eagerly awaited the first PoT course, which runs from July 11-13, with around 60 participants.
On Wednesday, July 12, Zimbabwe Chess Federation hosted a corporate simultaneous exhibition at Organikks, which was a black-tie event. GM Nigel Short conducted a simul against 30 participants from corporate sponsors. Many high-profile guests attended the event, including several dignitaries such as the Minister of Sport, Minister of Education, Sport and Recreation Commission Chairman, Sports and Recreation Commission Director General, and diplomats from US and UK embassies.
On Friday, July 14, the team will fly out to Victoria Falls and then on Sunday, July 16, Jerry and Anzel will set out for Lagos, Nigeria, to run the second PoT course and promote Chess in Education via several social engagements.
FIDE Chess in Education Commission focuses on expanding the global outreach for chess in education. Since children enjoy learning through play, chess is a powerful educational tool for developing and honing various intellectual skills. Chess can be taught as a stand-alone class or integrated into other subjects through exercises, investigations, and chess-related activities. Game-based education engages students and improves the quality of their learning experience.
Jerry Nash has been involved in the field of chess in education for over 20 years providing training for educators around the world on how to teach the game and use it to introduce skills development. WIM Anzel Laubscher is a practising Advocate of the High Court in South Africa. She has run numerous FIDE teacher training courses all around Africa. She is the co-author of the new Preparation of Teachers course that awards the School Instructor title to successful participants.
