The Eritrean National Chess Federation (ENCF) has taken a significant step in strengthening grassroots chess development through a teacher training programme held from February 2-6, 2026. The course trained educators to coach junior and high school students.
The five-day course focused on equipping educators with the practical coaching skills, age-appropriate training methods and the effective ways to introduce chess within school environments. Sessions were highly interactive, combining theory with hands-on activities designed to make learning engaging and accessible for young players.
Participants described the training as both informative and enjoyable, noting its emphasis on creativity, critical thinking and student engagement. Beyond technical instruction, the programme also highlighted chess as a tool for education, discipline and character development.
Officials from the ENCF said the initiative is part of a long-term strategy to build a sustainable pipeline of players by investing in coaches at the school level. With a growing pool of trained and motivated teachers, the federation is confident the impact will be felt in the near future.
“Now that we have devoted and well-prepared coaches, we are confident that strong players will emerge within the next two to three years,” an ENCF official noted.
The training programme represents a major milestone for chess development in Eritrea, laying a solid foundation for future national talent and reinforcing the federation’s commitment to structured, school-based chess growth.