Photo: BSS

KHULNA, May 16, 2026 (BSS) - 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.

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 said chess is an intellectual game that plays an important role in developing analytical ability, patience, foresight and strategic thinking.

He said students need not only textbook-based knowledge but also creativity, strategic planning and problem-solving skills to succeed in today's competitive world, adding that chess is an effective means of developing such qualities.

Prof Masud also said events like inter-university chess competitions promote healthy competition, mutual understanding, leadership and fraternity among students. Such initiatives also create a platform for exchanging knowledge, culture and experiences among students from different universities, he added.

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 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.