Just another day... by Benjamin Daniels: October 2010

Thursday, October 28, 2010

The official launch of the Moves for Life programme

By IM Watu Kobese, Trustee

The Moves for Life chess programme was launched in a gala dinner, where heavy hitters in politics, business and chess circles were in attendance.
The honorable State President, Mr. Jacob Zuma, was the main speaker. The Minister of Education, Mrs. Angie Motshekga, deputy Minister of Sports and Recreation Mr. Gert Oosthuizen, were ministers that graced the occasion.

Announcements

The President of South Africa, Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma

President Zuma announced his support and recognition of chess as a problem-solving training activity. He highlighted the cognitive development and advancement in ability as some of the gains that young learners will derive from chess.

“It is an important game in many aspects, the main benefit being that it contributes to the development of strategic thinking as well as concentration, analytical skills and problem solving.” A drive to have chess in all schools in South Africa will be further strengthened by the President’s willing and helping hand. “We will play our part as government. Both the Departments of Basic Education as well as Sports and Recreation are involved and already working to promote the game.” He announced his patronage to the Moves for Life programme, which he commended for being uniquely South African.