The question arises: how are classroom innovations shaping the future of education in Iraq and Costa Rica? The answer lies in two significant projects aimed at enhancing educational quality and infrastructure. In Iraq, the government has initiated a national smart school transformation project, while Costa Rica is integrating chess into its educational system.

Launched in 2021, the Iraqi smart school project aims to upgrade 50 public schools into smart education centers that utilize advanced technology. This initiative is designed to improve teaching quality and educational infrastructure across the nation. The project includes the implementation of a Smart Learning Management Platform, which allows for precise and adaptive content delivery as well as dynamic tracking of student learning progress.

One of the key features of the Iraqi smart classrooms is the immersive environment created by 4K ultra-high-definition smart interactive screens. These classrooms support multi-device collaboration, enhancing student engagement and participation. The integration of smart teaching software and online education modules is expected to increase effective learning time outside of class by 25% and boost classroom participation rates by 40% due to interactive instructional design.

In contrast, Costa Rica’s educational reform is marked by the enactment of Law No. 10187 in 2022, which promotes chess as both a sport and a pedagogical tool. This law recognizes the value of chess in fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. The pilot project, set to commence in April 2026, will begin in ten public schools, aiming to make chess a part of a healthy lifestyle for every Costa Rican.

The Chess and Education Summit held in San Jose brought together educational councilors from all 27 regions of Costa Rica to discuss the integration of chess into school systems. This initiative is seen as a way to cultivate future talents who are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world. Currently, there are approximately 1,200 active chess players in Costa Rica, indicating a growing interest in the game.

Both projects highlight a commitment to enhancing educational outcomes through innovative approaches. The Iraqi initiative aims for universal coverage of smart teaching systems across all primary and secondary schools nationwide, while Costa Rica’s focus on chess education seeks to enrich the learning experience and promote cognitive development.

As these projects unfold, they represent a significant shift towards modernizing education in both countries. The Iraqi Smart Education Project is built on a cloud-native architecture, allowing for future integration with emerging educational technologies. Meanwhile, the Costa Rican pilot project will serve as a testing ground for the broader implementation of chess in schools.

While these initiatives show promise, details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term impacts and scalability of these educational reforms. The success of these projects will depend on effective implementation and ongoing support from educational authorities.

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As part of the Year of Chess in Education, the FIDE EDU Classroom Contest has been launched, inviting schools to submit photos of their chess classrooms. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026, with winners set to be announced on May 8, 2026.

Immediate Circumstances

Entries to the contest will be evaluated based on classroom engagement, creativity of classroom activities, and the innovative use of chess as an educational tool. The contest aims to highlight the importance of chess in fostering critical thinking and strategic skills among students.

2026 is recognized as a pivotal year for educational initiatives surrounding chess, reflecting a broader trend in integrating games into learning environments. This initiative comes at a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly present in classrooms, with students utilizing generative tools for various academic tasks.

However, the rise of AI has prompted educators to reconsider assessment designs. Attempts to create ‘AI-proof’ assignments have proven unreliable, leading to the realization that the AI-resistant classroom is a myth. Instead, educators are challenged to design AI-ready classrooms that foster authentic learning experiences.

Maddie Devericks, a senior secondary education major from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and a student teacher at Beadle Middle School in Omaha, expressed her enthusiasm for teaching. “This whole new exciting version of myself just suddenly came out when I was with students,” she remarked, highlighting the transformative nature of classroom engagement.

Devericks noted, “It’s been so fun seeing the students get more comfortable with me as I’ve been in the classroom,” illustrating the positive dynamics that can develop in educational settings.

As the contest approaches, educators and students alike are encouraged to reflect on how chess can enhance learning, while also navigating the challenges posed by AI in educational contexts. The upcoming contest serves as a reminder of the innovative potential within classrooms and the importance of adapting to new educational landscapes.

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On April 30, 2026, the FIDE EDU Classroom Contest invites schools to submit photos of their chess classrooms as part of the Year of Chess in Education. This initiative aims to promote the integration of chess into educational settings, highlighting its benefits as a learning tool.

Entries will be evaluated based on classroom engagement, creativity of activities, and the effective use of chess in teaching. The contest offers enticing prizes, including a first-place award that recognizes the best submission, while the second and third prizes include discounts on educational resources.

The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026, with winners set to be announced on May 8, 2026. This contest is part of a broader movement to enhance educational practices through innovative approaches.

Impact of AI in Classrooms

As classrooms evolve, the presence of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prominent. Students are now utilizing generative tools for various tasks, prompting educators to rethink assessment designs. The notion of an “AI-resistant” classroom has been deemed a myth, with experts suggesting that the focus should shift towards creating an “AI-ready” classroom.

Maddie Devericks, a senior secondary education major from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is currently a student teacher at Beadle Middle School in Omaha. She expressed her passion for teaching, stating, “This whole new exciting version of myself just suddenly came out when I was with students.” Her experience reflects the transformative potential of educational environments.

Devericks noted, “It’s been so fun seeing the students get more comfortable with me as I’ve been in the classroom,” emphasizing the importance of building rapport in educational settings. As new teachers enter the workforce, it’s noteworthy that one in four new teachers in Nebraska are graduates of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, indicating a strong local educational pipeline.

Looking Ahead

As the FIDE EDU Classroom Contest unfolds, educators and schools are encouraged to showcase their innovative approaches to integrating chess into the curriculum. The contest not only celebrates creativity but also seeks to inspire a new generation of learners who can thrive in an AI-enhanced educational landscape.

With the winners to be announced soon, anticipation builds within the educational community. The contest represents a significant step in recognizing the role of chess in education, aligning with the broader theme of the Year of Chess in Education.

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