Chess education​

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At KEY academy, chess is more than a game. It is an integral part of our curriculum and a powerful tool for building the 21st-century skills every child needs to thrive. Though ancient in origin, chess continues to sharpen skills that are timeless and essential: strategic thinking, problem-solving, focus, patience, creativity, and resilience.

Through chess, our students learn to anticipate, plan, and adapt. They gain confidence in their ability to make decisions, take risks, and learn from mistakes. These lessons extend far beyond the board, shaping how they approach challenges in school and in life. Every child at KEY academy is introduced to chess in the classroom, supported by an experienced chess facilitator who works alongside our educators. Once a term, the entire school comes together for our internal chess tournament, a joyful showcase of learning, growth, and friendly competition.

This commitment to chess education naturally grew into something bigger -  ChessMasters. Launched in 2025, it’s Africa’s largest annual school chess tournament, which KEY academy pioneered in partnership with Eko Hotels & Suites and Chess in Slums Africa. It’s the culmination of years of dedication to the game within our walls, and takes the power of chess far beyond our classrooms, giving children across Nigeria the chance to develop critical thinking, confidence, and collaboration skills through this extraordinary game.

For us, chess is not an extracurricular activity. It’s a bridge between tradition and innovation, and a proven way to prepare children for the future.

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