A new chapter in educational innovation began on 31 October 2025, when the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the All India Chess Federation (AICF), and KIIT University signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Goa.
The collaboration aims to integrate chess into education and society, using the game as a tool for learning, mental development, and social inclusion.Chess, long seen as a sport of intellect and strategy, will now become part of classroom learning—helping students sharpen cognitive skills while building focus, patience, and decision-making abilities.
Key Highlights of the MoU
- Chess in Education:
- Chess to be introduced in schools and universities as part of academic and co-curricular activities.
- Teacher-training programmes will help educators use chess as a learning tool.
- Chess to be introduced in schools and universities as part of academic and co-curricular activities.
- Social Impact:
- Chess will reach underprivileged students and communities, promoting equality and inclusion.
- The initiative aligns with FIDE’s global “Year of Chess in Education 2026”.
- Chess will reach underprivileged students and communities, promoting equality and inclusion.
- Research & Events:
- Joint research, workshops, and outreach projects will be organised.
- An International Conference on “Social and Educational Chess” will be hosted by KIIT University in January 2026.
- Joint research, workshops, and outreach projects will be organised.
- Leadership Remarks:
- Arkady Dvorkovich (FIDE): “This partnership will bring chess into classrooms and strengthen young minds worldwide.”
- Nitin Narang (AICF): “India is leading the way in Social Chess. Every student should have access to chess education.”
- Dr. Achyuta Samanta (KIIT): “At KIIT, we believe education and sports must go hand in hand for holistic growth.”
- Arkady Dvorkovich (FIDE): “This partnership will bring chess into classrooms and strengthen young minds worldwide.”
Conclusion
The FIDE–AICF–KIIT collaboration marks a significant step toward merging sports with education. By bringing chess into the classroom, the initiative nurtures both intellect and character—encouraging strategic thinking, focus, and fairness.This move ensures that “the next generation not only plays to win but also learns to think, plan, and grow.”
FAQs
1. What is the main purpose of this MoU?
Ans: The MoU aims to make chess a part of formal education by promoting it as a tool to enhance thinking, focus, and problem-solving skills among students.
2. Who are the key partners in this initiative?
Ans: The three signatories are:
- FIDE (International Chess Federation)
- AICF (All India Chess Federation)
- KIIT University (Bhubaneswar, India)
3. How will students benefit?
Ans: Students will gain sharper cognitive abilities, better academic concentration, improved patience, and stronger analytical thinking through structured chess lessons and tournaments.
4. When and where is the next event under this MoU?
Ans: An international conference titled “Social and Educational Chess” will be held at KIIT University in January 2026.
5. Why is this important for India?
Ans: India is already a rising global hub for chess. Integrating it into education will build stronger mental skills among youth and promote inclusive learning across schools and regions.
My self Anita Sahani. I have completed my B.Com from Purbanchal College Silapathar. I am working in Dev Library as a Content Manager. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Health, Finance, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
