Chess, beyond being a recreational activity for people of all ages, is an effective tool for cognitive development in people of any age, regardless of gender. This sport contributes to the structuring of clear thinking, facilitates agile problem solving, enhances decision making, promotes efficient analysis, increases concentration, and strengthens visual memory. Chess is also recognized for promoting planning, rigor, and mental order.
"Various studies, including one conducted by the University of Tübingen in Germany, indicate that playing chess activates both hemispheres of the brain: the left hemisphere, involved in identifying pieces, and the right hemisphere, responsible for recognizing patterns and moves. This comprehensive activation encourages both rational and creative thinking, improves memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, and contributes to increased brain plasticity and cognitive reserve."
Chess in Colombia is a valuable educational tool used to develop cognitive skills (logical thinking, problem solving, memory), socio-emotional skills (tolerance, self-control, empathy), and academic skills (reading, creativity, performance on tests such as ICFES). It is implemented through extracurricular activities, cross-curricular activities, or as a subject, showing positive results in various educational institutions, especially in primary schools.
JUSTIFICATION
Thanks to his commitment, dedication, and love of chess, Carlos Sánchez, an enthusiastic volunteer at the Foundation, led and completed the creation of the Chess Club program. With the implementation of his pilot project, and the collaboration of the Technical Educational Institution El Pital, headquartered in San José de Saco – Juan de Acosta, generated our first promotion, which included 20 students who actively participated in this project, allowing us to lay the foundations for the “MP Chess Club” workshop, which we aim to promote to other educational institutions.
It can be said with certainty that chess is an effective tool for strengthening fundamental skills. In addition to its recreational function, this characteristic represents a significant reason to actively promote its practice.
OBJECTIVE
The Matías Panatta Chess Club is an initiative promoted by our Foundation aimed at encouraging and promoting interest in chess, prioritizing enjoyment and discipline in the practice of this sport.
Beyond teaching the principles of the game and some basic techniques, the club seeks to offer a space for sharing ideas, fostering imagination, and stimulating the practice of chess, sowing the seeds of continuity. Its main purpose is to stimulate the love of chess in children from an early age, taking into account all the benefits that it brings.
OUR COMMITMENT
To provide the essential resources for introducing chess, as well as to accompany and support the development of 6 to 8 basic workshops. It will be the responsibility of the beneficiary institution to provide the appropriate space and development for these activities to take place.
If you would like to implement our program in your institution, please write to us to request more information.