"VAN" (Sports Desk - 06.08.2026) :: The inaugural FIDE World University Team Championship Finals continued on Wednesday in Almaty as the battle for the knockout stage intensified, with university teams from around the world fighting for every point.
Following another day of intense competition across the four pools, the championship once again highlighted the unique connection between elite chess, higher education, and international friendship.
Before the start of play, the ceremonial first move was made by FIDE General Secretary Łukasz Turlej and President and Delegate of the Malaysian Chess Federation Akramshah Muammar Ubaidah Sanusi, accompanied by the Executive Director of the Kazakhstan chess federation Gulmira Dauletova, officially launching another exciting day of university chess.
The championship also provided an opportunity to showcase Kazakhstan's long-term commitment to chess in education. Addressing participants, Minister of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek underlined the country's vision:
"Today, more than 1,500 schools across Kazakhstan teach chess as part of their curriculum, and 36 universities have already integrated chess into higher education. Chess has become part of the educational journey in Kazakhstan - from primary school to university."
The Minister also emphasized that Kazakhstan sees chess as a key part of developing future generations, making it one of the pillars of the country's national education strategy.
Throughout the day, participants shared how chess has shaped both their academic and personal journeys.
Representing the University of Cambridge, Emilia Mezykowska explained that her own chess story began in the classroom.
"I actually started playing chess at school through Poland's 'Education for Chess at School' programme. That's where I learned the rules and played my first tournaments."
Now studying engineering at Cambridge, she believes chess continues to play an important role in her education.
"I study engineering, and chess definitely helps with concentration and logical thinking, especially in STEM subjects."
For Davin Yin of Harvard University, the championship has also been an opportunity to experience Kazakhstan for the first time.
"I'm really loving Kazakhstan. The people here are wonderful, there's so much to see and do, and it's been great sharing this experience with my teammates."
Reflecting on balancing university life with competitive chess, he added:
"Studying and chess are all about planning your time well - making sure you have time for classes, homework, and the things you enjoy."
IM Anna Sargsyan, representing Webster University, spoke about the challenges student-athletes face while pursuing excellence both academically and over the chessboard.
"Balancing university studies with competitive chess is very difficult. During the academic year, it's hard to find enough time for both."
With a master's degree ahead of her, she acknowledged that finding the right balance will remain an important part of her future.
The battle for the knockout stage intensified on Day Two as Rounds 3 and 4 concluded in Almaty. With just one day of the group stage remaining, three teams have already secured first place in their respective pools, while several others have booked their places in the quarterfinals.
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