Khulna: The inter-university chess competition 2025-2026 began today at Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET) with a colourful inaugural ceremony. The competition, organised by the university’s Directorate of Student Welfare (DSW), has brought together players and representatives from 19 universities across the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, KUET Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Muhammad Masud formally inaugurated the competition as the chief guest, while Director of Student Welfare Professor Dr Md Hasan Ali presided over the programme. Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the importance of chess as an intellectual game that plays a crucial role in developing analytical ability, patience, foresight, and strategic thinking. He emphasized that students need more than textbook-based knowledge to succeed in today’s competitive world, noting that chess serves as an effective means of developing creativity, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills.
Prof Masud also remarked that events like inter-university chess competitions promote healthy competition, mutual understanding, leadership, and fraternity among students. He added that such initiatives create a platform for exchanging knowledge, culture, and experiences among students from different universities. Acting Deputy Director of the Directorate of Student Welfare and Chairman of the Sports Management Committee Md Mahmudul Alam delivered the welcome speech.
Among others, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Student Welfare and Member-Secretary of the Organising Committee Rajan Kumar Raha, Provost of Khanjahan Ali Hall Professor Dr Md Abdullah Elias Akter, and Member-Secretary of the Bangladesh Inter-University Sports Association Md Mahbubul Alam also spoke at the function. The participating universities include KUET, Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET), University of Dhaka, University of Rajshahi, University of Chattogram, Jahangirnagar University, Islamic University, Khulna University, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, National University, and several other public universities.
Players, teachers, officials, students, and invited guests from different universities were present at the inaugural ceremony.