Mpumalanga regulator takes underage gambling awareness campaign to Emalahleni schools
Students were educated on the consequences of participating in gambling before reaching the legal age, including the potential impact on education.
South Africa.- The Mpumalanga Economic Regulator (MER) has taken its campaign against underage gambling to secondary schools in Emalahleni, warning learners about the risks of gambling and alcohol consumption at a young age.
The awareness campaign was held at Mehlwana Secondary School and Coronation Secondary School in Klarinet, Emalahleni Local Municipality. MER conducted the programme alongside Miss Mpumalanga 2026, serving as its ambassador, the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Students were educated on the consequences of participating in gambling before reaching the legal age, including the potential impact on education, decision-making, relationships and future opportunities. The campaign also addressed illegal gambling activities and the risks of being drawn into them through peer pressure.
Learners were reminded that gambling should not be viewed as a way to make money, solve financial problems or provide a shortcut to achieving personal goals.
SAPS representatives discussed school safety, crime prevention, and substance abuse, while urging learners to report criminal activities and seek assistance when faced with unsafe situations.
SANCA also focused on alcohol and substance abuse, explaining the risk of addiction and encouraging learners to seek support when dealing with personal challenges or pressure rather than turning to substances.
Miss Mpumalanga 2026 advised learners to remain focused on their education and long-term goals, stressing that decisions made during their school years can influence their future opportunities.
School engagements have become a key part of MER’s approach to taking its responsible gambling message to young people and raising awareness about the risks before they enter the legal gambling market. campaign comes amid the latest findings by the National Gambling Board (NGB), which show that gambling participation in South Africa is highest among people aged 25 to 34.
