Unlocking Potential: Alexandra’s Youth Thrive Through Chess and Coding at Run Alex Holiday Programme
Unexpected Opportunities: Children in Alexandra Thrive Through Run Alex Holiday Programme
ALEXANDRA, July 3, 2023 — In a vibrant display of intellect and athleticism, 32 children aged 7 to 15 have come together at Kwabhekilanga Sports Ground for the inaugural Run Alex Holiday Programme. This six-day initiative, which runs until July 8, aims to keep young minds engaged and inspired during the school holidays, blending chess, coding, and running into a unique learning experience.
The programme is a brainchild of Run Alex, an organization dedicated to fostering community engagement and personal development among youth. With the goal of steering children away from the streets, the initiative offers a rich tapestry of activities designed to stimulate both the mind and body.
At the heart of the programme are chess sessions led by Bongani Mazibuko, founder of Chess Is My Lifestyle. Mazibuko, a passionate advocate for the game, believes chess is a powerful tool for cognitive development. “Chess is one of the most accessible sports. You don’t need expensive equipment, and you can start playing at a young age,” he explained. “The benefits are significant; children who engage with chess often see improvements in their academic performance.”
Remarkably, only eight of the participants had prior exposure to chess, yet early assessments show that most are already scoring impressively, with many achieving four to five out of six in their evaluations. This success underscores the potential of chess as a developmental tool.
In addition to chess, the programme includes introductory coding classes using ScratchJr, further broadening the children’s skill sets. Nomthandazo Moloi from Run Alex emphasized the initiative’s deeper purpose: “We want to show children that there is more to life—more to reading, more to running, and more to everything we do to keep them engaged.”
The programme was made possible through generous donations from participants of the Run Alex 10km race held earlier this year. Moloi expressed hope that community support will enable the programme to continue during every school holiday, providing ongoing opportunities for local youth.
Anelisa Mzimazi, director of the Run Alex Development Programme, shared her excitement about the initiative. “We are thrilled to broaden the horizons and stretch the minds of kids in our community with this holiday programme,” she said.
As the children engage in chess strategies, coding challenges, and track activities, they are not just learning skills; they are discovering new pathways to opportunity. The Run Alex Holiday Programme stands as a testament to the power of community and the potential that lies within every child.
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