In a groundbreaking initiative, Al Khobar recently witnessed a unique one-month chess training program designed exclusively for the visually impaired—underlining Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to inclusive cultural and intellectual engagement.
Organized by the Turning Point Association for Rehabilitation and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired, in partnership with Gambit Chess Club, the program concluded on August 19 with six participants completing over 46 hours of intensive training at the association’s headquarters.
Participants learned the fundamentals of chess—its rules, piece movements—and engaged in practice matches.
The closing ceremony celebrated their perseverance with certificates and medals of honor, attended by representatives of both the association and the club.
A founding member and vice president of Gambit Chess Club reflected on the initiative’s significance, stating:
“Chess is more than a game—it’s a formidable educational and developmental tool. Dedicating this program to visually impaired players opens doors to inclusive cultural participation.”
He emphasized that the initiative subtly challenges misconceptions, asserting:
“We’re redefining barriers—intelligence knows no bounds in sight.”
Highlighting the game’s power to build confidence and provide a fair competitive platform, he added that the next phase aims to expand the program to include other groups such as the hearing impaired.
Collaborations are underway with specialized schools and associations, alongside training dedicated coaches to ensure long-term sustainability.
This pioneering effort marks a meaningful stride in community engagement, spotlighting Saudi Arabia’s endeavor to create equal opportunities in intellectual and cultural pursuits—making chess truly accessible to all.
