FIDE launches a new program to strengthen women’s role in chess education

Following the 2026 Chess Women’s Day celebrations, the FIDE Women’s Commission and the FIDE Educational Commission have introduced a notable and long-term initiative. Under the theme “Visible, Connected, Worldwide”, events held throughout March across different parts of the world increased visibility and solidarity among girls and women in chess. Now, that momentum is being carried into the field of education. The newly announced FIDE Preparation of Teachers Course for Women Around the World is designed not only to answer today’s needs, but also to help build the future of chess on a more inclusive foundation.

The core idea behind the program is clear: teachers shape generations. Training more women as chess educators can make the global image of the game more balanced, more accessible, and more inspiring. The presence of female teachers and role models is especially important for young players, and particularly for girls taking their first steps in chess. A student’s ability to see herself as a natural part of the chess world directly affects confidence, willingness to compete, and long-term engagement with the game. In that sense, this initiative is more than a technical training course; it is also a strong response to the issue of representation within the chess ecosystem.

While the FIDE Educational Commission has long organized high-level courses for chess educators, this new series stands out as the first teacher preparation program specifically dedicated to women. Planned within the framework of the Year of Chess in Education, the online training courses aim to reach participants from different regions and language backgrounds. In this way, geographic barriers and access limitations are reduced, while a supportive learning environment is created to help women become more visible and more qualified in chess teaching. This approach also underlines that chess is not only a competitive game, but also a powerful educational tool.

The first course will be held in English on May 8-10, with Anzel Laubscher serving as lecturer. According to the schedule, sessions will run from 16:00 to 19:00 CEST on Friday, and from 10:00 to 16:00 CEST on both Saturday and Sunday. This step by FIDE supports a stronger place for women in chess not only as players, arbiters, or organizers, but also as educators and transformative figures. In the long run, programs of this kind are expected to increase women’s representation across clubs, schools, local federations, and international structures, while also reinforcing the grassroots base of the game.