Hundreds of school pupils from around Tembisa flocked to Child Academy Private School on June 16 for the first annual Tembisa Chess Club tournament.
The pupils took part in the event with enthusiasm, playing a variety of matches against their friends.
All the pupils who participated in the tournament were awarded certificates, medals and trophies.
The chess tournament was organised by the Tembisa Chess Club and was sponsored by Tsogo Sun Moves For Life.
According to one of the tournament organisers, Mr Vusi Mokone, the tournament was about bringing the youth in the community together on June 16, which is also Youth Day.
“We also collected clothing and shoes for needy children,” he said.
Mr Mokone said the chess games play a large role in the children’s education, as it assists with creativity and problem solving skills.
“We are hoping this initiative will help young people to stop doing crime, taking drugs, bullying other children in schools or engaging in sexual intercourse, which could destroy their future. We want to help build strong and educated future leaders from the Tembisa township. Those who would like to join the Tembisa Chess Club are welcome,” he said.
Mr Mokone said they are also appealing to local business people, or any good Samaritans, to help sponsor the initiative.
Since it was formed in 2013, the Tembisa Chess Club currently teaches school pupils chess at Ikusasa, Tshepisa, Sedibeng, Child Academy and Ingqayisivele Secondary Schools.
One of the pupils participating in the chess tournament, Themba Skhosana who is a pupil from Masisebenze Comprehensive High School, said he became interested in the use of chess as an educational tool.
“Chess helps me exercise my brain and memory. It improves my concentration and teaches me how to plan,” he added.
Skhosana said he encourages other pupils to take part in the game as it brings good values to an individual.
At the end of the tournament, pupils were served with a free meal and drinks.
For more information about the Tembisa Chess Club, contact Mr Vusi Mokone on 071 588 3555 or Mr Phil Mngomezulu on 074 997 2692.
