NWGB educates Tshukudu students on the dangers of underage gambling
Speakers underlined the legal prohibition on gambling for individuals under the age of 18 and explained how gambling can harm young people and destabilise communities.
South Africa.- The North West Gambling Board (NWGB), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Social Development (DSD) and other key stakeholders, has held a life-skills and responsible behaviour awareness campaign at Tshukudu High School, aimed at educating learners on the risks of gambling, substance abuse and other social challenges.
The initiative forms part of the board’s broader efforts to promote responsible gambling and safeguard youth from gambling-related risks, in line with its statutory mandate to regulate and oversee gambling activities in the North West Province under the North West Gambling Act, 2001.
Addressing learners, representatives from the DSD highlighted the real-world dangers of cyberbullying and substance abuse, urging students to make positive choices and seek help when needed.
Khulisa Social Solutions spoke on the importance of nurturing young lives and investing in community development, reinforcing that healthy communities depend on informed and empowered youth. Mme Kgosana Petleke, a Tribal Office Dignitary, joined the session to reinforce messages around character building and personal responsibility, encouraging learners to embrace respectful and constructive behaviour.
At the heart of the campaign was the NWGB’s focus on underage gambling, a persistent concern in provinces where gambling opportunities are widely accessible and where unregulated activities can lure minors. Speakers underlined the legal prohibition on gambling for individuals under the age of 18 and explained how gambling can harm young people and destabilise communities.
The board warned that underage gambling can lead to addiction, financial difficulties and poor academic performance. It also increases the risk of bullying, exploitation and mental health challenges, and in some cases can contribute to social isolation or criminal behaviour.
To support individuals affected by gambling-related harm, the board emphasised the availability of the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation’s (SARGF) free treatment and counselling programme, encouraging anyone struggling with addiction to contact the toll-free helpline on 0800 006 008 for confidential support.
The regulator urged learners to resist the temptation of underage gambling and to prioritise their wellbeing, while the school’s SRC President praised the presentations as “words of wisdom”. In her closing remarks, Petleke thanked the speakers and reiterated her call for learners to uphold strong values and responsible behaviour.
The school visit forms part of broader efforts by regulatory authorities to educate communities and young people about the role of the regulated gambling sector in the economy, the risks associated with illegal or premature gambling involvement, and the importance of responsible participation within legal boundaries.
