Have you ever imagined facing off in a chess match against a nun or monk? This became a reality at the daylong Youth Centre Chess Championship for beginners in Thimphu. Seven monks and two nuns from various youth centres across Bhutan competed alongside other young players.
16-year-old Tandin Tshewang is a monk at the Dechen Yangtsi Dratshang in Zhemgang. He has been playing chess since his childhood. However, it was not until he joined the Youth Centre in Zhemgang last year that he received formal chess training.
He came victorious at the local competition, allowing him to compete at the championship.
For Tandin, chess is more than just a game. It is a mental exercise that requires quick decision-making and strategic planning.
Tandin Tshewang said, “I am very happy to participate in this competition. Chess can help develop skills that we can share with others. I hope to share the knowledge I gained with my friends at the monastery as well.”
Like Tandin, Sonam Deki, a nun finds chess a relaxing and engaging activity.
“I did not participate to win but to motivate my friends at the nunnery who are interested in chess. For me, it is not about winning; it is about practising, putting in the effort, and learning along the way,” said Sonam Deki, a nun at Losel Yangchenling Dratshang, Monggar.
The monks and nuns competed against 24 other youths from 13 youth centres across the country.
15-year-old Tenzin Zepa from Changjiji Youth Centre won the championship.
Tenzin Zepa said, “It feels surreal to win, especially since I did not expect to take the first place. It was a tough competition, but I managed to win all six rounds. I am happy and proud, and I am looking forward to the next tournament.”
Following his victory, the Bhutan Chess Federation plans to train Tenzin further to compete with the country’s top players.
The Youth Centre Chess championship was introduced in 2022 to inspire young people to sharpen their concentration and elevate their critical thinking skills.
“We initiated this programme in the youth centres to engage young people meaningfully, especially during their vacations. We want to equip them with skills that will help them become competent chess players in the future,” said Amrit Bdr. Suba, the Principal Counsellor at the Programme and Youth Coordination Division, MoESD
The Department of Education Programme under the Ministry of Education and Skills Development in collaboration with the Bhutan Chess Federation and UNICEF Bhutan, organized the event.
Jamyang Loday
Edited by Sangay Chezom
