FIDE Visits Mongolia to Promote Social and Educational Chess Programs
FIDE representatives recently visited Mongolia to support chess activities focused on education and social development. The visit aimed to strengthen international cooperation and promote chess as a powerful learning tool.
The delegation included André Vögtlin, Chairman of the FIDE Social Commission and President of the Swiss Chess Federation. Dr. Mikhail Korenman, founder of the Chess for Freedom program, was also part of the visit.
The FIDE team met Mongolia’s Deputy Prime Minister Khassuuri Gankhuyag in Ulaanbaatar. He received the Social Chess Year Award for Mongolia’s strong contributions to community chess programs. These initiatives have helped improve education, inclusion, and social development across the country.
The delegation also met leaders of the Chess Federation of Mongolia at the State Parliament building. Officials shared their achievements in chess education and long-term plans to grow the game nationwide.
Two major chess academies, ABChess Academy and Steinitz Academy, showcased their training programs. They highlighted their work with junior players and youth development. Both sides discussed future partnerships and global best practices in chess education.
A special visit was made to the Women’s Federal Correctional Facility. The prison chess team has won the Chess for Freedom Championship three times in a row. FIDE officials met prison leaders and honored them with the Social Chess Year Award for their support of social chess projects.
Former members of the prison chess team shared inspiring stories. They explained how chess helped build confidence, discipline, and hope in their lives. Their experiences proved that chess is more than a game. It is a powerful tool for rehabilitation and personal growth.
This visit strengthened Mongolia’s ties with global chess organizations. It also laid the foundation for future projects in social and educational chess worldwide.
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
