ARC HEAL – Nutrition Meets Chess

What do healthy eating and chess have in common?

At first glance, not much. But through the ARC HEAL Campaign, the two came together in a programme designed to strengthen both body and mind.

The initiative included nutrition awareness sessions for parents and caregivers, led by a paediatrician and child nutritionist. Discussions covered a wide range of topics, from nutrition during pregnancy and the first 1,000 days of life to helping children and teenagers develop healthier eating habits. Participants also explored the benefits of preparing meals using mostly locally grown vegetables and fresh fish, while reducing reliance on processed products.

Alongside these sessions, students were introduced to chess through a structured 12-lesson programme designed to build concentration, patience, and strategic thinking. For many children, the lessons offered their first experience with the game, turning learning into an enjoyable challenge.

By bringing together nutrition awareness for families and chess lessons for students, the programme created a simple but thoughtful combination: healthier habits for the body, and sharper thinking for the mind.

Key Facts

• Locations: K. Thulusdhoo, K. Gulhi, and K. Huraa
• Partner: Advocating the Rights of Children (ARC)
• Programme components: Nutrition awareness sessions for parents led by a paediatrician and
  child nutritionist
• 12-lesson chess programme for students
• Topics included pregnancy nutrition, early childhood nutrition, teenage eating habits,
  and reducing processed foods