On the occasion of International Chess Day, President of the Ghana Chess Association, Christiana Ashley, has called for greater investment in the sport, describing it as a powerful tool for building minds and shaping the future of the country.
In a message to the chess community, Ashley said chess goes beyond the 64 squares to teach life values that Ghana’s youth need.
“On this International Chess Day, I bring you warm greetings from the Executive Council of the Ghana Chess Association. Today we celebrate a game that builds minds, builds character, and builds nations. Chess teaches our children focus. It teaches our youth patience, strategy, and resilience. It teaches all of us to think before we act, to respect our opponent, and to rise stronger after every setback.”
The GCA President used the opportunity to thank everyone keeping the game alive across the country.
“To every player in our schools, communities, and clubs — thank you for your passion.
To our coaches, arbiters, volunteers, and parents, thank you for your sacrifice.
To our sponsors, partners, and institutions supporting chess — thank you for believing in our vision.”
Ashley reaffirmed the Executive Council’s commitment to growing the game at all levels in Ghana.
“The Executive Council remains fully committed to growing chess across Ghana. Our goal is clear: to make chess accessible to every child, to develop world-class players, and to position Ghana as a respected force in the global chess community.”
International Chess Day is celebrated globally every July 20 to mark the founding of FIDE in 1924. In Ghana, the GCA has been pushing programs in schools and communities to introduce more children to the game. – — Christiana Ashley, GCA President
