Chess: A Catalyst for Education and Personal Development in Young Minds
Chess: A Game of Strategy and Life Skills at the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026
Stellenbosch, South Africa – The International Chess Federation (FIDE) is redefining the narrative around chess, showcasing it as a powerful tool for personal development rather than merely a competitive sport. This vision was vividly illustrated during the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026, where international chess leaders gathered with local learners to highlight how chess can unlock educational opportunities and cultivate essential life skills.
The event, held at Paul Roos Gymnasium, featured a community outreach program that brought together around 50 learners from underserved schools in the Stellenbosch area. This initiative aimed to inspire children from historically disadvantaged communities, demonstrating how chess can foster education, leadership, and social mobility.
Among the notable figures present were FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, entrepreneur and chess patron Timur Turlov, and renowned chess coach Robert Katende. Throughout the afternoon, speakers engaged the audience in discussions about how chess nurtures discipline, creativity, decision-making, and leadership skills applicable in various life scenarios.
“Chess is not just a game; it’s a pathway to personal growth,” said Dvorkovich. “Our mission is to ensure that every child has access to opportunities that build confidence and unlock potential through chess.”
Timur Turlov, CEO of Freedom Holding Corp., emphasized the connection between chess and business leadership. “The strategic thinking required on the chessboard mirrors the mindset needed for investing and decision-making,” he explained. Turlov believes that children today need more than just literacy and numeracy; they must also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
During his visit, Turlov shared insights from his own leadership journey, highlighting how chess has influenced his decision-making process. “When I’m stressed or fatigued, I tend to make poor decisions, just like in chess. It’s crucial to be in the right frame of mind before making important choices,” he noted.
Q&A with Timur Turlov
Q: How has chess influenced your business decisions as a CEO?
A: “Chess has helped me understand my own decision-making. I’ve learned to postpone important decisions until I’m in the right frame of mind.”
Q: What initiatives have had the greatest impact on school chess participation in Kazakhstan?
A: “The digital approach has been transformative. Since introducing our program in South African schools, over 60,000 children have enrolled. We’ve empowered teachers and introduced educational games and digital learning tools.”
Q: How do you see ChessBase changing the way people learn chess?
A: “We aim to develop ChessBase into a mobile-first platform, making it accessible globally. By integrating AI, children can learn from professional players, even in remote areas.”
The Future of Chess
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich outlined three major trends shaping the future of chess. “First, we need to make chess more attractive as a spectator sport. Second, faster formats are gaining popularity, as audiences prefer shorter games. Lastly, streaming and influencers are introducing new audiences to chess through engaging online content.”
These developments are part of FIDE’s broader strategy to use chess as a global educational tool. The outreach program in Stellenbosch exemplifies how partnerships between international sporting organizations, schools, and the private sector can equip young people with critical thinking, resilience, and leadership skills that extend far beyond the chessboard.
As the chess community continues to evolve, the message remains clear: chess is not just a game; it’s a vital educational resource that can transform lives and empower the next generation.