Training young talents towards chess glory

Adliya-based Stepway Academy announced it has established a first-of-its-kind chess training programme for school children designed to develop concentration, attention span, memory and critical thinking.

The programme is run by Arjun Kakkadath, an International Chess Federation (FIDE) rated master. In an interaction with The Daily Tribune, Mr Kakkadath says that there are lot of talented youngsters in the Kingdom who have the potential to make it big in the world of chess. Excerpts:

1) How is the game (chess) viewed by students in the region in general and Bahrain in particular?

Genuinely speaking, Bahrain doesn’t currently have a chess culture like that of India or the United States. But the promising thing is that there are lots of talented youngsters in the country who really have the potential to make it big. Lots of young kids and parents have started showing interest in the game. It is indeed a positive sign.

2) Could you tell us something about your experience as a chess tutor? 

I have been working as a chess tutor for the last 6-7 years. Initially I worked in Calicut and then moved to Bangalore. Currently along with managing the academy, I take online sessions for students from various parts of India. I also have International students from USA, Australia, New Zealand and Oman. The journey so far has been interesting.

3) Is this a game meant for people with high IQ levels? 

There is a general perception among people that you need to have a high IQ in order to excel at this game. I don’t believe in it. All that is required to be a champion is a burning desire, passion and willingness to work hard.  Although it is true that playing chess helps in building our IQ.

4) Could you share some of the successes achieved by your students?

Chess helps in the overall development of a kid. My students have achieved success both on and off the board. Some of my students from Kerala like Athul Krishna, Manu, Arijith and Abhijith have won all the state titles ranging from Under 7 to under 25 and have represented the state in national events. One of them has represented India in world under 19 chess championship while others have represented India in Commonwealth chess championship. 

Recently one of my beginner students from USA won his first tournament in Houston. Also to talk about their off the board achievements, all four of them were Kerala state toppers in academics. This proves that chess helps in the holistic  development of a child.

5) Looking ahead, what are your future plans?

The future looks really bright. I see a lot of chess potential in Bahrain, I wish to bring in the chess culture to this country. I don’t want to limit myself to Bahrain, once I am established, I will try to expand the academy to various countries including India, that way I will be doing my part in popularising this wonderful game. In addition to the chess training, Stepway Academy is offering arts, music, traditional mural painting training and educational support activities such as tuition classes for grades 8-12.