Excellence in Strategy: DPSI Dominates at the 2026 GIF Chess Tournament

The DPSI Chess Team has once again demonstrated its remarkable consistency and dominance on the national stage, securing the Gold Trophy at the 2026 Ghana Inter-School Festival (GIF) Games. This latest triumph marks an extraordinary sixth consecutive victory, reinforcing DPSI’s reputation as one of the leading forces in school-level chess in Ghana.

The tournament, known for attracting some of the most talented young minds from across the country, provided a highly competitive platform where strategy, discipline, and mental resilience were put to the test. DPSI rose to the occasion with confidence and composure, delivering performances that reflected both individual brilliance and strong team cohesion.

At the heart of this success were standout performances from Manoom and Ridham, who emerged as champions and secured gold medals through a series of calculated and impressive matches. Their ability to read the board, anticipate opponents’ moves, and execute precise strategies set them apart throughout the competition.

Adding to the team’s success, Siddhart Gupta delivered a commendable performance, finishing in third place and earning a podium spot. His consistency and determination played a crucial role in strengthening DPSI’s overall standing in the tournament.

The event also recognised exceptional qualities beyond victory. Atarva was honoured with the Brilliance Award, highlighting creative and innovative gameplay, while Shreemahati received the Sportsmanship Award, reflecting integrity, respect, and exemplary conduct throughout the competition. These accolades underscore the holistic development encouraged within the DPSI chess programme.

Behind this continued success lies the dedicated guidance of Coach Michael Darbah, whose expertise and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the team’s strategic depth and competitive mindset. His ability to nurture talent and instil discipline has clearly translated into consistent results at the highest level of inter-school competition.

Equally important is the support of the school’s management, whose investment in creating a nurturing and high-performance environment has enabled students to excel not only academically but also in competitive arenas such as chess. This victory is not just a win on the board, but a reflection of a broader culture of excellence.

As DPSI celebrates this milestone achievement, the focus now shifts to sustaining this legacy and continuing to inspire the next generation of chess players. With such a strong foundation, the future of DPSI chess looks exceptionally promising.