The prestigious National Chess Academy was formally unveiled on Saturday (January 6), at the BOI Auditorium, marking a significant moment in Sri Lanka’s chess landscape. The inauguration ceremony, graced by the esteemed presence of FM/ FT Sunil Weeramantry from the USA, brought together the nation’s top chess players.

The event witnessed the active participation of all national chess players who competed in the last National Chess Championship, along with the top ten performers from the National Youth Chess Championships held in December 2023. Accompanying them were key figures from the executive committee of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, highlighting the collective commitment to advancing the sport.

The establishment of the National Chess Academy stands as a monumental stride toward nurturing Sri Lanka’s chess talent. By providing a platform for both seasoned players and emerging talent to interact with renowned trainers, the academy aims to elevate the standard of chess in the country.

This strategic initiative not only fosters the growth of individual players but also positions Sri Lanka on the global chess map by offering exposure to international standards. The National Chess Academy is poised to become a hub of excellence, driving the evolution of chess in Sri Lanka and fostering a new generation of grandmasters.