KAMPALA UNIVERSITY CROWNED CHESS CHAMPIONS OPEN CATEGORY WHILE MAKERERE WINS LADIES CATEGORY AT 20th AUUS GAMES 2025

Uganda Christian University (UCU), in partnership with the Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS), officially hosted the 20th edition of the AUUS Games. Held at UCU Main Campus, Mukono, the games brought together universities from across the country for a week of intense competition from 18–23 December 2025, with Kampala University emerging as champions of the Open Chess category, while Makerere University dominated the Women’s Chess competition.

Uganda Christian University became the first institution to host the AUUS Games four times, having previously done so in 2007, 2013, and 2023, further cementing its place at the heart of university sports development in Uganda.

In the Open Chess category, Kampala University delivered a composed and dominant performance to emerge overall champions, asserting themselves as the leading force in university chess. Over seven competitive rounds, Kampala University remained unbeaten, registering four wins and three draws to finish top of the standings with 19½ points, securing the gold medal in emphatic fashion.

Makerere University claimed the silver medal, finishing second after a spirited campaign that produced five wins and two losses, accumulating 17 points. Despite moments of brilliance, inconsistency at critical stages proved costly in the title race.

*Makerere University team in red (open)*

Completing the podium was Mbarara University of Science and Technology, who earned the bronze medal following a strong all-round performance. Their tally of four wins, two draws, and one loss saw them finish with 18½ points, underlining their steady rise as a competitive chess institution.

The Women’s Chess competition showcased exceptional talent and growing depth across university teams.

Makerere University emerged as champions, demonstrating tactical maturity and consistency throughout the tournament.

Kampala International University secured second place, mounting a strong challenge and displaying disciplined team play.

Kyambogo University finished third, completing the podium after a determined and commendable performance.

The chess competition at the 20th AUUS Games once again highlighted the importance of intellectual sport within Uganda’s university system. Sharp calculation, mental endurance, strategic planning, and composure under pressure proved decisive in separating champions from contenders.

As Kampala University celebrates a well-earned Open title and Makerere University dominates the Women’s category, attention now turns to future editions of the AUUS Games, where rival institutions will be eager to challenge the reigning champions and elevate university chess to even greater heights.