National Gambling Board and NSFAS Partner to Raise Awareness and Prevent Underage Gambling Among Students

The National Gambling Board (NGB) and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at raising awareness about the harmful issues related to gambling among students at tertiary institutions and supporting their academic success. 

Underage gambling has been on the rise, with more young adults engaging in gambling due to financial pressures, accessible internet options, and aggressive digital advertising from operators. Consequently, this partnership was initiated in response to growing concerns about young people’s exposure to gambling, particularly through illegal online platforms. Of particular concern is the diversion of student allowances, intended for tuition, accommodation, and meals, toward gambling activities. 

The primary objectives of this collaboration include promoting awareness by increasing students’ knowledge of responsible gambling practices, protecting funds by discouraging the misuse of NSFAS-funded allowances for gambling, including illegal online activities, and strengthening preventative education through early intervention initiatives across universities and TVET colleges. 

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Waseem Carrim, Acting CEO of NSFAS, emphasized, “NSFAS funding is intended to support students’ educational journey and essential living needs. When these funds are diverted to gambling, it can undermine academic success and long-term financial well-being. This partnership focuses on prevention, awareness, and empowering students to make informed choices that support their future.” 

Additionally, the partnership aims to empower students with responsible decision-making skills to ensure their resources are used to improve life opportunities. To achieve these goals, the NGB and NSFAS will formalize their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a governance framework for joint interventions. 

Key measures to be implemented include nationwide outreach and on-campus education programs, targeted campaigns on financial literacy and the dangers of illegal gambling, engaging students through workshops, discussions, and campus activities focused on harm reduction, and sharing information to enhance monitoring and prevention efforts. 

Acting CEO of NGB, Mr. Lungile Dukwana, stated, “This partnership prioritizes the protection of young people through harm reduction approaches that prevent the development of harmful gambling behaviors. Particular attention will be given to the growing normalization of gambling through digital advertising platforms, social media, and mobile applications, which increasingly influence students.“