The concrete objectives we aimed to achieve by implementing the project were: - Promote chess as an inclusive educational activity. - Promote chess among youth workers as a pedagogical tool. - Create a Learning Management System on chess-based learning (online platform). - To increase the quality of the local activities and practices of the organizations involved. - To increase the capacity and reinforce the synergy between involved organizations to work at the EU level. These objectives were directly linked to the priorities of Erasmus+, which focused on promoting inclusive education through chess, enhancing youth workers' pedagogical and digtial skills, and developing an online platform for chess-based learning. Additionally, the project aimed to improve the overall quality of local activities within participating organizations and foster collaboration at the EU level to maximize the impact of our initiatives. Furthermore, the objectives were aligned with the Erasmus+ program's key priorities, emphasizing the promotion of non-formal and informal learning methods, enhancing digital competencies, and fostering international cooperation among youth organizations.
The decision to apply for this project was driven by the shared recognition among the participating organizations from North Macedonia, Poland, and Serbia that there were young people in their respective countries who lacked access to opportunities for non-formal education. The participating organizations observed that a significant number of young individuals faced limitations in accessing educational resources and engaging in non-formal learning activities that could contribute to their personal and skill development. The "iChess" platform was designed to break down geographical barriers and provide young people with a user-friendly and easily accessible interface where they could engage in chess-based learning activities. By creating this digital platform, the project sought to address the needs of young people who lacked opportunities for non-formal education. Through the platform, young individuals would have the chance to enhance their cognitive skills, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strategic planning, all while enjoying the benefits of playing chess.