Dr Nguyễn Trà Giang, vice president of the Việt Nam Chess Federation, presents chess sets and gifts to children at Ánh Linh Charity School. — Photos courtesy of organisers

HCM CITY — The sixth season of the Happy Chess project is bringing free chess lessons to 50 disadvantaged children at Ánh Linh Charity School in Tân Hưng Ward, HCM City.

The programme officially started over the weekend and will run for eight sessions until December 5. Volunteer coaches, including university students and teachers from chess centres across the city, are guiding the children through the lessons.

Launched in 2023 by Vice President of the Việt Nam Chess Federation Dr Nguyễn Trà Giang, Happy Chess aims to bring chess classes to disadvantaged children and children with disabilities, giving them opportunities to learn and enjoy the game regardless of their family circumstances.

Beyond teaching chess, the project encourages children to think before making decisions, develop patience and respect their opponents. The classes also offer opportunities to make friends, share experiences and learn to handle both victory and defeat, helping build confidence through the game.

Children at Ánh Linh Charity School attend a chess lesson with volunteer coaches.

The sixth season is supported by main sponsors The Grand Ho Tram and KingViet Education, which provide funding for volunteer coaches, chess sets, uniforms and nutritious meals. Participation is free for all 50 children.

Happy Chess is supported by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and online chess platform Chess.com. FIDE has also recognised the project's contributions to community development.

Since launching the initiative in 2023, Giang and her partners have pursued a long-term goal of donating 100,000 chess sets and building a network of 1,000 volunteer coaches. With each new season, Happy Chess brings chess a little closer to children who need care, support and understanding. — VNS

The children receive nutritious meals throughout the programme, in addition to their chess lessons.