KFC National School Basketball Festival set for 19th edition later this month

Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) has officially launched the 19th edition of the KFC National School Basketball Festival, which is scheduled to run from June 28 to July 5 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH).
The launch ceremony, held on Friday, brought together sponsors, Government officials, teachers, coaches, student-athletes and members of the media as organisers outlined plans for what is expected to be another significant chapter in the development of school basketball across Guyana.
Speaking at the launch, YBG Co-Director Chris Bowman said the organisation’s focus extends beyond competition and remains centred on the holistic development of young people through sport.
Bowman noted that Youth Basketball Guyana continues to use basketball as a platform to promote leadership, scholarship and personal growth while also encouraging athletic excellence among student-athletes.
He highlighted the continued expansion of the sport nationwide and revealed that the 2026 festival is expected to feature several historic milestones. Among them is the anticipated debut of St Ignatius Secondary School from Region Nine and the first-ever participation of teams from Region Two at the national championship.
According to Bowman, increased investment in school and community basketball courts is creating more opportunities for young people across the country to participate in the sport. He added that Berbice is also expected to field one of its strongest contingents to date, including girls’ teams.
This year’s championships will be contested in four divisions: Under-14 Boys, Under-16 Boys, Under-18 Boys and Under-16 Girls.

Bowman explained that the age-group structure was deliberately designed to encourage continuity and long-term athlete development. He also reaffirmed YBG’s policy that student-athletes can compete in only one division during the festival.
He said the measure is intended to preserve the integrity of each championship, promote competitive balance and ensure players compete within their appropriate age categories.
Representing Edward B Beharry and Company Limited, Malisa Jeffers reflected on the company’s long-standing association with the tournament. She said the festival has consistently demonstrated its value by helping to develop disciplined, confident and well-rounded young people who make positive contributions to their schools and communities.
KFC Guyana representative Jonathon Milford also addressed the gathering, encouraging student-athletes to continue developing their skills and making full use of the opportunities available through sport. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting youth development initiatives throughout Guyana.
Remarks on behalf of Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr and Minister within said Ministry, Steven Jacobs, were delivered by Deputy Director of Sport Frankly Wilson.
Wilson congratulated Youth Basketball Guyana on maintaining the programme for nearly two decades and highlighted the Government’s continued investment in sports infrastructure. He pointed to ongoing construction and upgrade works at the CASH, noting that the improvements will strengthen the facility’s ability to host national events and support organisations such as YBG.
A highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the four championship trophies, which was assisted by student representatives from Queen’s College, President’s College and St Rose’s High School.
Held under the theme “Laying the Foundation, Building the Future”, the 19th KFC National School Basketball Festival will bring together schools from across Guyana for eight days of competition, celebration and student-athlete development.