South Africa Launches ‘Risk to Responsibility’ Campaign to Protect Students from Gambling Risks
The National Task Team (NTT) announced the launch of the Risk to Responsibility Campaign on 17 August 2026. This multi-stakeholder national initiative is designed to empower South African students and youth through financial wellness education and responsible behavioral awareness.
Underage gambling in South Africa is becoming an increasingly serious problem, primarily caused by digital technology, high youth unemployment, and the accessibility of illegal gambling. Although the legal age to gamble is 18, many minors are finding ways to bypass the rules.
This has led to nationwide crackdowns and large public awareness campaigns, such as the NTT campaign. It was established to address the misuse of student financial aid and funding for gambling activities, especially as young people face increasing exposure to harmful online environments and illegal gambling platforms.
By promoting prevention-focused education and healthier decision-making, the campaign aims to equip students with the tools necessary to transition from high-risk environments toward a future of accountability and empowerment.
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A central feature of the rollout is the Future Leaders Responsible Gambling Forum. This national platform will empower nominated student representatives from universities across South Africa to become advocates for financial wellness and youth safeguarding within their communities. The Forum will provide opportunities for leadership development, industry mentorship, and peer-to-peer awareness programs.
The campaign also highlights the dangerous intersection between gambling environments, alcohol consumption, and digital spaces. By fostering strategic partnerships and media advocacy, the NTT seeks to inspire long-term behavioral change, positioning students not just as beneficiaries of awareness but as active leaders capable of shaping safer social environments.
The NTT campaign brings together a diverse range of key institutions dedicated to collaborative efforts. These include the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), the African Lotteries and Gaming Association (ALGA), the National Gambling Board (NGB), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and Higher Health.
Additionally, various student organizations such as the South African Union of Students (SAUS) and the South African Technical Vocational Education and Training Student Association (SATVETSA) play vital roles. Other important members include the National Liquor Board Authorities and the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator (MER), which chairs the Provincial Task Team (PTT). This collective partnership aims to address shared challenges and promote coordinated action across different sectors.
