By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

A four-day chess workshop was organised at Don Bosco High School, Kawant, from February 20 to 24, 2026 under the inspiring campaign theme, ‘If the Student Improves, the World Improves’. The workshop was conducted by Gujarat’s renowned chess player, trainer and President of Chaturang Chess Academy, Mr Virendrasinh Zala.

 Don Bosco High School, Kawant, known across the Kawant region for its achievements in arts, sports and academics, once again demonstrated its commitment to holistic education by hosting this enriching programme. A total of 45 students from Standards 6 to 9, representing both the English and Gujarati medium sections, actively participated in the workshop with great enthusiasm.

 The sessions were conducted in the presence of the school management and staff, including the Manager, Fr Dr Mayank Parmar; the Principal of the Gujarati Medium, Fr Ajay; the Principal of the English Medium, Fr Agnel; the Administrator, Br Melvin; the Hostel In-charge, Br Ankit; and members of the teaching faculty.

 During the workshop, Mr Virendrasinh Zala provided comprehensive and systematic training in the fundamentals and strategic aspects of chess. Students were introduced to the correct arrangement of the chessboard, identification of files and ranks, and the naming of all 64 squares. They were guided through the identification and relative value of each chess piece, along with the rules of movement and capturing.

 Special emphasis was laid on the unique features of pawns, the concept and execution of castling, elementary checkmates, and the correct procedures for claiming a draw. The trainer also explained key tactical themes such as pins, forks, double attacks and double checks. In addition, students were advised on important precautions and strategic thinking before and during the game.

 The training sessions were interactive and intellectually stimulating. Through this structured exposure to chess, students were given the opportunity to sharpen essential life skills such as logical thinking, analytical ability, calculation skills, and the capacity to anticipate an opponent’s moves. The workshop also fostered concentration, self-discipline, confidence and fearless decision-making among participants.

 It is noteworthy that Mr Zala has conducted similar training sessions across 27 districts of Gujarat under the same campaign. This workshop at Don Bosco High School marked his 134th–135th workshop in the ongoing initiative. His mission of student development through chess has positively impacted thousands of young learners across the state.

 At the conclusion of the programme, the school management expressed sincere gratitude to Mr Virendrasinh Zala for his dedicated efforts and invaluable contribution towards student development. The school family congratulated him on his sustained commitment to nurturing young minds and empowering students through the intellectual sport of chess. 

The workshop proved to be an enriching and transformative experience, reinforcing the belief that when students grow intellectually and morally, society at large progresses towards a brighter future.