Miden, in partnership with Chess in Slums Africa (CISA), has officially launched the second cohort of the Chess to Dream After-School Program, designed to bring the transformative power of chess, literacy, and digital education to public school students in Lagos.
Following the success of the inaugural cohort with children from Makoko, this new phase expands to public secondary schools across Yaba. More than 900 students were reached during the outreach phase, from which 100 participants have been selected to undergo a 12-week immersive after-school program at the CISA Innovation Hub. Running from September to December 2025, the program bridges both foundational and future-ready skills by combining chess, literacy, and character development with science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and digital literacy.
Speaking on the initiative, Okiemute Dominic Avworhokai, CEO of Miden, said:
“We see education as the strongest form of infrastructure. Programs like this make sure children from underserved communities are not left behind, but given the chance to learn, grow, and compete on a global stage. For us at Miden, supporting these students is an investment in the future of our society..”
Tunde Onakoya, Founder of Chess in Slums Africa, added:
“Every child deserves the chance to dream. Watching these children discover what they are capable of is the most powerful reminder of why we do this work.”
The Chess to Dream After-School Program will culminate in a Capstone Exhibition Day, where participants will present their projects to parents, partners, and community members. Students from the Innovators Track will showcase STEM experiments, design portfolios, and digital creations, while students from the “Unveiling Royalty” Track will demonstrate their progress in literacy, communication, and public speaking. The exhibition will highlight the program’s impact and celebrate the growth of students who are not only learning chess but also acquiring the academic and life skills needed to excel.
This second cohort reinforces Miden’s and CISA’s shared vision of using chess as a platform for transformation. Together, the organizations are ensuring that children from underserved communities are equipped with the confidence, education, and innovation opportunities to claim a brighter future.
About Miden
Miden offers unified payments infrastructure solutions to enterprises and financial institutions. The company actively supports initiatives that promote education, empowerment, and trust in emerging markets.
About Chess in Slums Africa
Chess in Slums Africa (CISA) is a non-profit organization using chess as a tool to educate and empower children from underserved communities. Through chess, the organization fosters mental development, social inclusion, and personal growth.
Media Contact:
Isioma Ogwuda
Brand and Marketing Team
Miden
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