Umar clinches title at University of Swat Independence Day Chess Championship

SWAT
The University of Swat, in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chess Association, successfully hosted the Independence Day Chess Championship 2025. The prestigious event brought together over 100 players from across the country, including Malakand Division, and concluded with thrilling matches and a festive closing ceremony.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Swat, Professor Dr. Hassan Sher, graced the closing ceremony as chief guest, while other distinguished guests included Omar Khan, General Secretary of the Chess Federation of Pakistan, Mohammad Salman Khan, Vice President of the KP Chess Association, Kashif Saleem, General Secretary, and Mohammad Waqar, Rating & Development Officer.
The tournament held special significance as it was FIDE-rated and recognized by the International Chess Federation, providing young players with free FIDE IDs and live online scoring. This recognition will enable emerging players to participate in national and international events in the future.
According to the final results, Umar Khan of Peshawar delivered an outstanding performance to claim the championship trophy, while Farmanullah Khan from Batkhela secured the runner-up position. The chief guest, Professor Dr. Hassan Sher, distributed cash prizes and certificates among the top performers.
Addressing the ceremony, Dr. Hassan Sher highlighted that chess is more than just a game — it is a discipline that nurtures strategy, wisdom, and critical thinking. He emphasized that chess helps students sharpen their intellectual abilities, which plays a vital role in both their academic and professional lives.
The successful organization of the event was credited to Mohammad Salman Khan, Vice President of KP Chess Association, Kashif Saleem, General Secretary, and Dr. Amjad, Director Sports at the University of Swat, for their tireless efforts in ensuring smooth arrangements and player facilitation.
In his remarks, Omar Khan, Secretary General of the Chess Federation of Pakistan, also praised the University of Swat administration and KP Chess Association for their commitment to promoting chess in the region.