Malawi Schools Shine in National Chess League Qualifiers

By Patience Kapinda

The National Schools Chess League (NSCL) Central West Education Division (CWED) Qualifiers have successfully identified top-performing schools that will proceed to the next stage of the competition.
The tournament, managed by National Arbiter Hope Mwazozo, saw strict adherence to Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) guidelines to ensure fair play and integrity.

In the Open Section, Bwaila Secondary, Chipasula Secondary, Magawa Secondary, and Chaminade Marianist Secondary emerged as the top four teams, while in the Girls Section, Atsikana pa Ulendo, Lilongwe Girls Secondary, Chipasula Secondary, and Mseche Secondary secured their spots in the next round.

The NSCL aims to promote chess in schools, identify young talent, and improve educational outcomes.

According to Gift Howahowa, General Secretary of the Chess Association of Malawi (CHESSAM), “Chess boosts academic performance, sharpens critical thinking, and builds confidence and resilience.”

The association has received increased sponsorship from NICO Asset Managers, with CEO Daniel Dunga emphasizing the importance of investing in the youth for a brighter future. The sponsorship will be utilized for purchasing chess equipment, organizing league logistics, and providing prizes for winners.

CHESSAM plans to expand the NSCL to more schools, train more coaches, and promote Malawian talent globally. The qualifiers have successfully engaged secondary schools across all regions, promoting chess at the grassroots level.

Peter Chama, a coach at Chaminade Marianist Secondary School, highlighted the benefits of chess, “It develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, benefiting students academically and personally.”

The top teams will proceed to a double round-robin stage on June 20, competing for a place in the National Finals. With rigorous arbiter oversight and adherence to FIDE standards, the NSCL continues to promote chess and support the development of young talent in Malawi.

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