The FIDE Infinite Chess project is proud to welcome Kazakhstan as a key partner in 2024, thanks to the incredible support of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation and its Executive Director, Gulmira Dauletova. This collaboration marks a significant step in promoting chess as a tool for development and inclusion for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The Infinite Chess project is now active in two locations:
Special Boarding School No. 1 in Astana, where chess has been introduced as an extracurricular activity. Three students (aged 10, 11, and 16) are participating, learning piece movements and basic tactics through weekly lessons.
The “Autism Pobedim” Center in Almaty, operated by the “Milaserdie” Voluntary Society. This center provides comprehensive support to around 70 children with ASD, offering services from psychologists, speech therapists, physical trainers, and educators. Since April 2025, the center has hosted a dedicated chess class under the Infinite Chess project, led by coach Vitaliy Kozyak, a renowned youth chess trainer in Kazakhstan.
Progress and Impact
At the “Autism Pobedim” Center, 11 students aged 13–20 are divided into three groups based on cognitive abilities. The program has shown promising results, with some students demonstrating improved concentration and problem-solving skills.
The Kazakhstan Chess Federation has played a pivotal role in this initiative, providing methodological support, teacher training, and resources. Gulmira Dauletova, a driving force behind chess inclusion in Kazakhstan, has been instrumental in expanding the project. Her efforts were highlighted during the Third Annual Autism Talks in Almaty, where she emphasized the importance of adapting chess education for neurodiverse children.
The Infinite Chess project in Kazakhstan aims to:
- Develop specialized teaching methodologies in the Kazakh language.
- Train more coaches in inclusive chess instruction.
- Expand the program to additional schools and centers.
This partnership exemplifies how chess can bridge gaps and create opportunities for children with ASD. We extend our gratitude to the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, Gulmira Dauletova, and all dedicated professionals making this vision a reality.