The tournament is included in the All-Russian Register of Sports and, according to the tradition laid down by Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, was held in order to popularize chess among students and to promote their intellectual development.
Answering the question about what the 6th FIDE President thinks about holding student chess tournaments, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov said: “I am happy that the All-Russian Student Chess Tournament was held in Elista, my hometown. I am glad that it took place in the Chess City. Elista firmly holds the title of the chess capital of Russia. It is wonderful that young people show great interest in this ancient and beautiful game. I am sure that this game can change the world for the better. Still, chess is a priceless gift that humanity has not fully appreciated.”