Thousands of children in Sierra Leone are trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty. They are disillusioned with learning with very low educational motivation. We plan to help change this through the game of chess. We hope to use chess as a framework to teach academic skills, critical thinking, and a lifelong appreciation for learning. Through the club, they will connect with mentors and engage/compete with peers globally. This will help kids stay in school and reach their potential.
A critical problem that we have identified over the years is a lack of motivation on the part of the children in Sierra Leone. Many kids are disillusioned, distracted, and not interested in learning. Kids also struggle with decision-making, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and focus. We are hoping to change this through the game of chess. Our planned chess club will create opportunities for kids to develop a love for learning and competition.
Funds from this project will help launch a new chess club in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Your support will help purchase chess sets, clocks, desks, tablets, laptops, a projector, etc. Funds will also help cover the costs related to internet access, lunch at meetings, etc. With available funding, additional clubs will be launched and scholarships provided to deserving children who are at risk of dropping out of school.
The project will help plant in kids a lifelong love for chess and learning. This will help them to rise above poverty, become independent and better decision-makers. They will then be better capable of making a significant contribution to their families, communities, nation, and the world at large.
