National chess competition for visually impaired players held in Dhaka
Dhaka, 10 December 2024: A two-day national chess competition for visually impaired players, organised by the Disabled Welfare Society (DWS) with the support of Sightsavers’ Equal Bangladesh campaign, was successfully held at the National Liberation War Museum in Agargaon, Dhaka, on 9 and 10 December 2024. The event was a part of the celebrations for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, aligning with this year’s theme of amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities.
The tournament brought together forty visually impaired chess players from across Bangladesh, creating a vibrant platform for showcasing their remarkable skills. The competition generated immense enthusiasm among participants, many of whom expressed their excitement at being part of this unique event.
The opening ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Monsur Ahmed Choudhuri, Founder Trustee of the Impact Foundation; Amrita Rejina Rozario, Country Director of Sightsavers Bangladesh; and Mohammad Zahidur Rahman, Country Director of CBM Global Disability Inclusion. Md. Amzul Haque, Director of the National Foundation for the Welfare of the Disabled Persons (JPUF) attended as the Chief Guest in the prize giving ceremony.
Morjina Ahmed, Executive Director of DWS, emphasised the need for increased opportunities for people with disabilities to engage in sports: “In Bangladesh, people with disabilities, especially those who are visually impaired, rarely have the chance to participate in sports. Through this chess competition, we wanted to demonstrate their incredible potential and advocate for greater inclusion in sports.”
A disability-inclusive state ensures equal opportunities for people with disabilities in every aspect of life, including sports. Unfortunately, they are often denied participation, limiting their avenues for recreation and social engagement. Initiatives like this competition are essential to breaking down barriers and fostering an environment where people with disabilities can thrive in sports and beyond.
Bappy Sarker, the winner of the tournament, expressed joy and gratitude: “I am thrilled to have participated in this competition. It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase our talents and connect with others. I sincerely thank the Equal Bangladesh campaign and DWS for organising such an inclusive event.”
The competition concluded with participants being honoured for their achievements, inspiring future efforts to promote disability inclusion in sports. Three best players and a champion woman player were awarded with a prize money. The event underscored the importance of creating an Equal Bangladesh where people with disabilities can access equal opportunities to participate and excel.
