Chess demands more than knowing the right move. Players must weigh possibilities, anticipate consequences and adapt when a game takes an unexpected turn. Competitive sport gives students a space to put these abilities to the test and pursue an interest alongside their academic education.
At Ahmedabad University, four students have taken that pursuit to the next level. Organised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), the chess team won gold at the AIU West Zone Inter-University Women’s Chess Championship 2026–27.
The four players bring together different academic interests. Falak Naik, Integrated MS Class of 2031; Kritee Shah, BTech Class of 2028; Yashvi Marvaniya and Vaibhavi Ranade, BTech Class of 2030
The result marks a first for Gujarat: Ahmedabad University is the first university in the state, public or private, to win gold in the women’s category at the AIU West Zone Championship. The win earns the team a place at the All-India Inter-University Championship, where it will compete against university teams from across the country. Further progression could open pathways to the Khelo India University Games and selection for the International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Games.
Ahmedabad University congratulates the team on this achievement and wishes them the best for the upcoming national championship and future competitions.