Somalia Chess in full gear!

When one thinks of chess-playing nations, Somalia would not be one of the first nations one would think of. However, the nation has been promoting chess as a means for academic improvement with a “chess-in-schools” program. According to an article on the Somali Chess Federation website, federation President Dr. Abdi Hassan has signed agreement headmasters of 50 Mogadishu-based schools to include chess lessons in schools academics starting in 2008-2009.

The federation also has a website (www.somchess.com) and states that for the first time “Somali school children will be taught chess-related lessons at schools.” In some inspiring pictures President Hassan can be seen gathering materials for the program. If you’d like to provide assistance in Somalian efforts, contact the Somali Chess Federation at info@somchess.com.

Ahmed Abdi Hassan, President of Somali Chess Federation