Central Region Training commenced from 22nd Nov., 2024 and was held at Lahore Grammar School, Johar Town, Lahore. Following are some glimpses into the 3 days of this grand venture, for the first time EVER at PAKISTAN!
Central Region Training commenced from 22nd Nov., 2024 and was held at Lahore Grammar School, Johar Town, Lahore. Following are some glimpses into the 3 days of this grand venture, for the first time EVER at PAKISTAN!
Islamabad Training commenced from 29th Nov., 2024 and was held at Institute of Regional Studies, Islamabad.
Lahore Commissioner Zaid bin Maqsood, in partnership with the Lahore District Education Authority, has taken a ground-breaking step to enhance the educational development of students in government schools by integrating mind sports into the learning process. Led by Saleem Akhtar, Senior Vice President of the Chess Federation of Pakistan, and Muhammad Yahya Cheema, Central Coordinator National Mind Sports Initiative, the introductory workshop highlighted the importance of chess in education, its benefits, and its role in intellectual and social development. Teachers enthusiastically participated, gaining insights into how chess could positively impact students' academic pursuits.Speaking at the event, Assistant Commissioner Syeda Anum Fatima lauded CEO District Education Nazir Hussain, district administrators, and the officials of the International Chess Federation and Chess Federation of Pakistan for their collaborative efforts. She emphasized that such world-class mind sports would have a transformative effect on the academic activities of government school students. She also expressed optimism that these initiatives would unearth grassroots talent, enabling students to compete in national and international chess tournaments and bring glory to Pakistan.
Marking the commencement of 2026, declared by FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich as the "Year of Chess in Education," a three-day FIDE EDU Preparation of Teachers (PoT) training concluded successfully at LGS Johar Town (January 2–4). Held for the LGS JT/OPF Cluster, this landmark event was a collaboration between the Chess Federation Pakistan (CFP) and the Prime Minister's National Mind Sports Initiative (NMSI).
The CIE Program in Pakistan, the brainchild of WIM Rita Atkins (Secretary FIDE EDU), WIM Anzel Laubscher, SLI, Member FIDE EDU, and NM Hanif Qureshi (President CFP), aims to revolutionize pedagogical frameworks. The training was expertly delivered by Muhammad Yahya Cheema, NI, SLI, NA (Chair Policy Commission CFP; Central Coordinator NMSI), ably assisted by Mr. Muhammad Waqar, SI, NA (Rating Officer CFP).
Feedback from the cohort was overwhelmingly positive, with participants lauding the training as an "enriching" and "meaningful" experience. Educators praised Mr. Cheema’s "engaging approach" and ability to distill complex chess strategies into accessible classroom concepts. The participants also praised Mr. Muhammmad Waqar for his assistance.
We extend our profound gratitude to Mrs. Samina Rahman, Director LGS, whose visionary patronage and unwavering support were instrumental in facilitating this training for the cluster. The success of this workshop at LGS Johar Town signals a robust future for the intellectual growth of students across Pakistan, cementing the nation's role as a leader in the Mind Sports movement.