National Chess Coaching Development Plan: A New Era

A United Front for Chess Education

Through the joint efforts of schools, regional structures, academies, and national leadership, this workshop marks the first major step in standardizing coaching across all nine provinces. With the support of Chess South Africa, local facilitators, and national specialists, 20 coaches were equipped to become ambassadors of excellence in their communities.

Special thanks go to the executive of Chess Limpopo and the Capricorn District for graciously hosting the event and providing full support to make the initiative a success. In particular, Mr. Joe Mahomole is acknowledged for spearheading this historic rollout, coordinating local logistics, and championing the vision of professional coach development in the province.

20 Coaches Certified Under the National Framework

Led by Reuben Salimu, Head Coach of Chess South Africa, the three-day workshop blended high-level theory, practical exercises, and peer learning. Coaches were assessed and certified using the National 5-Level Coaching Framework, a system designed to ensure consistency, clarity, and credibility in chess instruction nationwide.

Certification Levels Awarded:

School Supervisors

• Morris Mabasa

• Esther Mamogo Boshego

• Ndinannyi Justice Mukwevho

  
  

Entry-Level Instructors

• Fhulufhelo Olga Dzhivhuho

• Mashilo Daniel Kobe

  
  

Level 1 Instructors

• Tumelo Mmola

• Elias Mabotja

• Tebogo Mahomole

• Sekgwari Kgaogelo Mahomole

• Metja Salome Masipa

• Mutshutshu Sylvia Tshikovha

• Ika Leonette van den Berg

• Johanna Elizabeth Jánecke Buitendag

• Daniël Nortje

• Tintswalo John Shiburi

• Petrus Matsobane Lester Setshedi

• Lesiba Simon Kekana

• Mokgadi Jeanette Mabitsela

• Bushy Ledwaba

• Joe Mahomole

  
  

“This is not just a certification program—it’s a nation-building mission,” said Reuben Salimu. “These coaches are becoming multipliers of knowledge and opportunity.”

First to Launch the National Digital Platform

This Limpopo group also made history as the first cohort to utilize the newly developed national digital coaching platform. This platform is designed to serve coaches across South Africa’s urban and rural landscapes. It enables coaches to:

• Access lesson plans, student records, and coaching frameworks.

• Submit evaluations and assignments online.

• View tutorial videos and trainer support materials anytime, anywhere.

  
  

“This platform bridges the gap between provinces. It brings professional resources to every trainer’s fingertips,” said Johannes Erasmus, Digital Facilitation Manager. He oversaw the successful onboarding of all participants.

Acknowledging the National Implementation Team

This milestone was the result of exceptional collaboration. Several individuals deserve recognition for making this launch possible:

• Nkuna Mchuchisi – Deputy Head Coach, whose attention to detail ensured every chess module was technically sound, pedagogically aligned, and professionally packaged. He meticulously proofed all material and protected the chess integrity of the entire program.

• Payal Somai – Personal Assistant to the Head Coach, who played a crucial role behind the scenes, ensuring communication, scheduling, and document management ran flawlessly.

• Johannes Erasmus – Digital Facilitation Manager, for building and activating the national digital platform, ensuring its smooth deployment in Limpopo.

• Aldo Pekeur – Design and Packaging Lead, for creating visually coherent, branded, and user-friendly materials that elevated the professionalism of the rollout.

  
  

“Every strong system needs a strong team. This success is a product of true collaboration,” said Salimu.

135,000 Kids in Sight: The National Vision

Chess South Africa’s national plan sets a powerful goal:

✅ Train and certify 100 coaches in each of South Africa’s 9 provinces

✅ Each coach to train a minimum of 150 children annually

This means:

🧮 100 coaches x 150 children x 9 provinces = 135,000 children with access to structured, high-quality chess education.

These numbers represent real transformation—in schools, in homes, and in the minds of learners across South Africa.

Next Stops: Sedibeng and KwaZulu-Natal

Following Limpopo’s success, the next rollouts of the National Coaching Development Plan will take place in Sedibeng and KwaZulu-Natal. More passionate trainers will join this growing network of certified chess educators.

📍 For training registration, partnerships, or press inquiries, contact:

Reuben Salimu

Head Coach – Chess South Africa

📧 salimu@africanchesslounge.org | 📞 +27 78 572 7546