Educational Revolution: The Influence of Extracurriculars in Shaping Bright Young Minds

In a world where screens and gadgets compete for the attention of young minds, an ancient game of strategy is quietly proving its worth as a remarkable tool for nurturing intellectual powers and instilling life skills. Chess, with its intricate moves and tactical gameplay, has captured the imagination of generations, and now, more than ever, educators are recognising its potential to shape the minds of tomorrow. With an 18-year-old chess sensation namely, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa etching his name in history by becoming the youngest chess International Master (IM) and Grandmaster (GM) at the age of 10 years and 12 years respectively. His meteoric rise exemplifies the power of chess in shaping young minds.

The Telegraph Online Edugraph spoke to Vice Principal of Praggnanandhaa’s school Velammal Main Campus Ms Chitra Daniel and this is what she had to say “We introduced this program called Extra Curricular Activity Year Long Programme (ECA YLP) – which we incorporated along with the curriculum so that students in our school do not face any kind of strain so staying back after school hours or struggle for transport in the evening. As a part of this programme students have the option to indulge in their areas of interest along with their academic curriculum. For students who opt in we provide them specialised training from specialised coaches and at present we also have students who take classes in classical dance, music, fine art and so on. Initially we started this for lower class students, but after receiving overwhelming response from parents and identifying hidden talent of so many of our students we extended this programme level to mid senior school level”.

Edugraph also spoke to his Classteacher Mr. Poomani who added “Pragg is a very humble boy. You can hardly hear him speak loudly. He has this amazing ability to grasp any concept instantly. He was able to recall two whole chapters of what I taught him within a span of just 30 minutes”.

Trying out new hobbies or excelling in sports instills a sense of achievement and confidence. Successes outside the classroom bolster self-esteem, leading students to develop a positive self-image. This newfound confidence translates into the academic realm, as students approach studies with a can-do attitude, eager to conquer challenges.

“As a part of the amazing response of our ECA YLP we every year witness our students getting admissions in some of the prestigious universities of our country on the basis of sports quota. We spotted the hidden talent of Praggnanandhaa in the 1st standard itself post which we decided to provide him all sorts of help and support he needed to excel in his endeavour” added the vice principal

Facing setbacks and losses on the ground prepares young minds to handle challenges gracefully. Praggnanandhaa's journey itself is a testament to this aspect; he encountered defeats but used them as stepping stones towards growth.

As schools take heed of the transformational potential of extra curricular activities, they not only promote the growth of future generations but also equip students with skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Just like Praggnanandhaa's remarkable journey, each student's experience with their interest could be the opening move to a future marked by brilliance and success.