BCF Completes Successful Scholastic Chess Pilot Program

The Bahamas Chess Federation (BCF) has successfully completed Rounds 1 and 2 of its Scholastic Chess Pilot Program, delivered from October 2025 through March 2026 as part of the Federation’s Smart Moves initiative.

The pilot reached 23 schools across The Bahamas, introducing students to structured chess instruction designed to strengthen critical thinking, concentration, decision-making, confidence, and problem-solving skills.

The response from students and schools was overwhelmingly positive, with high levels of participation, requests for additional sessions, the development of new school chess clubs, and students voluntarily joining additional online training.

“The enthusiasm from our students and schools confirms that chess can become an important part of education and youth development in The Bahamas,” said BCF President Curtis Pride, Sr.

The program was made possible through the support of Lyford Cay Foundations, FIDE, The Gift of Chess, Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), The Pelagic Group, RDC Partners, Kanoo Innovation Hub, HAZMAC Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies, and Little Island Hotels. 

BCF extends sincere thanks to the coaches, instructors, volunteers, schools, sponsors, and partners who contributed to the success of the pilot.

Following the strong results of Rounds 1 and 2, the Federation looks forward to the full expansion of chess in education throughout The Bahamas, building on the momentum of FIDE and the International School Chess Federation’s designation of 2026 as the Year of Chess in Education.