KINGSTON, Jamaica —The Jamaica Draughts Association (JDA) continues to advance its mission of promoting strategic and critical thinking among Jamaica’s youth through the game of draughts.

The JDA recently participated in an educational engagement at Jacks River Primary School in St Mary as part of a community outreach initiative organised under the Oracabessa Police Station Community Safety and Security Branch (CSSB) Week of Activities.

The activity was conducted with the support of Constable Jody-Ann Cole, Constable Anthony Morrison, senior teacher Tenesha Henry, and grade three teacher Sulanch Grant.
The engagement focused primarily on introducing and reinforcing the value of draughts as an educational and developmental tool among students.

Jacks River Primary School has a student population of approximately 180, with the initial focus on a grade three class of 28 students.
During the session, students were introduced to the fundamentals of draughts while participating in exercises designed to strengthen strategic thinking, problem-solving, concentration, patience, and decision-making.

Speaking during the engagement, JDA president Deputy Superintendent Jermaine Delattibudiere highlighted that draughts is much more than a recreational activity.

He emphasised that the game teaches children to think before acting, evaluate consequences, anticipate future developments, and formulate effective strategies and skills directly transferable to academic performance, leadership development, and everyday life.

“Draughts encourages children to slow down, think critically, and make calculated decisions. Every move requires analysis, planning, and an understanding of cause and effect. These are the same skills that help young people succeed in school, avoid negative influences, and become productive members of society,” shared Delattibudiere, who is the new general secretary of the Pan-American Draughts & Checkers Confederation (PAMDCC).

Students were also encouraged to reduce excessive screen time and spend more time engaging in constructive activities that stimulate the mind. Discussions were held on the importance of discipline, focus, teamwork, conflict resolution, and healthy social interaction.

The initiative forms part of the JDA’s broader Strategic Games Programme, which seeks to introduce draughts and other strategic thinking activities into schools and communities across Jamaica.

Through these efforts, the association aims to create environments where young people can develop cognitive abilities, strengthen emotional intelligence, and cultivate leadership qualities from an early age.

The outreach activity also supported the week’s theme: ‘Helping our children make smart choices today for a brighter tomorrow’.

Delattibudiere said the JDA remains committed to working alongside schools, parents, community stakeholders, and public-sector partners to expand access to draughts and strategic games throughout the island.

Through sustained engagement and education, the association believes that the game of draughts can play a significant role in nurturing a generation of thoughtful, disciplined, and strategically minded Jamaicans.