Libraries Benefit from Chess Table Partnership

On Monday 13 June 2016 the Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais in partnership with the Department of Correctional Services handed over hand crafted chess tables to the Groenheuwel Library in Paarl and the Nazeema Isaacs Library in Khayelitsha.

The handover forms part of the department’s plan to encourage libraries in the Western Cape to provide youth with access to the game of chess in order to contribute to mass participation, talent identification and positive youth development.

The chess tables were made by the staff and inmates of various correctional facilities. Mr Matheyse from Correctional Services said, “This is a mutually beneficial partnership we have with the department and we are pleased that the chess tables will make a difference to the communities of the province”.

In her keynote address Minister Marais said, “The game of chess is not only a quiet recreational activity, but it also incorporates valuable life lessons. It teaches us to have a plan, make a move and take personal responsibility for the move and that each move has a consequence. It also teaches us that no matter how the opponent tries to push us into a certain position, the decision is always ours to make. I also hope to see rising chess stars from these communities participating in chess tournaments in the near future. ”

The president of the Boland Chess Union, Cecil Cupido, conducted the vote of thanks and said, “These chess tables have a symbolic value. It is a product of collaboration and it will contribute towards self-worth and dignity of those who made them and those that will be using them.”

Let us continue to support sport and promoting excellence through these initiatives in the Western Cape, BETTER TOGETHER.