Bayelsa moves to begin scrabble, chess in schools

Bayelsa State is set to integrate scrabble and chess into its secondary school curriculum, a move spearheaded by Governor Douye Diri's directive. The state's Ministry of Sports Development, led by Commissioner Daniel Igali, has begun collaborating with the Ministry of Education to lay the groundwork for the state's first Secondary Schools Scrabble Championship.

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Today’s meeting is about developing a clear blueprint for the seamless implementation of His Excellency’s directive. The collaboration establishes a comprehensive roadmap that guarantees the smooth execution of that mandate.

This initiative stems from Governor Diri's vision, unveiled during the sixth Governor Diri National Scrabble Classics. The collaboration between the sports and education ministries focuses on creating a practical roadmap for introducing these intellectual sports statewide. The goal is to broaden students' intellectual horizons, sharpen their critical thinking abilities, and enhance their problem-solving skills.

Commissioner Igali expressed his ministry's dedication to nurturing young talent through these intellectual pursuits, anticipating that Bayelsa will soon produce national and international champions in both scrabble and chess. The program will employ a train-the-trainer model, where coaches from the Bayelsa State Sports Council will equip selected teachers. These teachers will then mentor students, preparing them for the forthcoming championship.

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We believe that introducing scrabble in our schools will produce more national and international champions.

Emelah Gentle, the Commissioner for Education, commended the swift action by the Ministry of Sports Development, acknowledging Bayelsa's growing reputation in Nigerian school sports, particularly in basketball. He believes this new initiative will further solidify the state's standing for cultivating outstanding young talent.

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I commend the Ministry of Sports Development under the leadership of Honourable Igali for its swift response to the Governor’s mandate. Bayelsa has become a household name in Nigerian school sports, and this initiative will further strengthen our reputation for producing outstanding young talents.