KARACHI:
Pakistan’s sports scene is struggling after the recent poor performances of our national teams. Cricket gets most of the money and attention, while games like chess are left to survive on their own.
Chess is one of the cheapest sports to run. A board and a clock are enough, which makes it ideal for institutions with limited budgets. It is also widely linked to better concentration, problem solving and patience – skills every student needs. Yet most schools and colleges in Pakistan have no chess club, no trained coach and no inter-class competition. Students who love the game have nowhere to play, and their talent goes unnoticed.
Our educational institutions are missing a simple, affordable way to build young minds and find sporting talent. A few institutions do hold a chess event once a year, but without regular practice or coaching, these remain one-day activities and do not build players. Schools and colleges should set up chess clubs and set aside a weekly period for the game. Teachers or senior students can coach beginners, and inter-school and inter-college tournaments can give players a stage. Institutions can also partner with local chess associations for trainers. These small steps cost little and could produce Pakistan’s next champions.
Farhan
Karachi
