Vijayawada Embraces Chess for Social Change: SKCV Children’s Trust Launches Chess Coaching on International Chess Day
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – In celebration of International Chess Day, a meaningful initiative was launched at SKCV Children’s Trust, Hanumanpeta, Gandhi Nagar, Vijayawada, with the objective of introducing chess to disadvantaged children as a tool for intellectual empowerment and social transformation.
This thoughtful programme is part of a state-wide campaign driven by Sri A. Suresh Garu, President of the Andhra Chess Association, encouraging chess academies and district associations to adopt and support children’s homes and institutions with regular chess activities.
The event was successfully organised by Sri Rajeev Mandula, FIDE Arbiter and Secretary of The Vijayawada Chess Association (TVCA), along with Sri Akber Pasha, President of TVCA, who together initiated the long-term coaching programme at SKCV.
Sri Rajeev Mandula, who is also a certified National Instructor, has volunteered to provide regular, structured chess training to the children of the Trust, enabling them to develop mental discipline and potentially excel at district and national levels.
The launch was graced by
Shri K. Chandra, Chief Coordinator of the Trust,
Shri N. Narayan, Accounts Officer, and
Shri Arava Ramesh, Coordinator, Forum for Child Rights, Vijayawada.
Chess boards, instructional books, and training materials were distributed to the children, many of whom are orphans or come from vulnerable backgrounds. The programme marked the beginning of a free, long-term chess coaching initiative, empowering children to develop strategic thinking, focus, and confidence through the ancient game.
An Institution of Care and Vision
SKCV Children’s Trust, renowned for its enduring commitment to child rights, care, and rehabilitation, provides safe shelter, education, and emotional nurturing to children in need. Their collaboration in this chess initiative reflects the Trust’s continued belief in holistic child development and lifelong learning.
Sri Arava Ramesh, representing the Forum for Child Rights, lauded the project for adding a new dimension to the Trust’s efforts, saying the initiative would not only promote cognitive development but also offer children new pathways to personal growth and potential sporting excellence.
A Vision Inspired by ACA’s Call
The event stands as yet another inspiring response to the clarion call of Sri A. Suresh Garu, who envisioned chess as a medium of empowerment for society’s most vulnerable. Under his leadership, chess is now being introduced across various homes and special institutions throughout Andhra Pradesh.
This initiative at SKCV underscores the growing belief that chess can be a catalyst for mental discipline, creativity, and hope — especially when placed in the hands of children who truly deserve a platform to shine.