SportPesa, SAPS and The Free State, Gambling, Liquor, and Tourism Authority deliver first of its kind Responsible Gambling workshops to the University of the Free State
SportPesa, working alongside national and provincial partners including law enforcement and regulators, delivered a first of its kind, student focused responsible gambling initiative at the University of the Free State, centred on education, harm prevention and South Africa’s gambling laws.
The workshops were held in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Free State Gambling, Liquor and Tourism Authority (FSGLTA) and the University of the Free State (UFS).
Taking place over three days from 6 to 8 May, the workshops focused on how gambling addiction develops, how to recognise early warning signs, how odds and probability work, and where to seek help.
In total, more than 250 students took part across the three days.
Students were also taken through the practical protections available in licensed environments, including self-exclusion and cooling-off options, setting limits, and access to external support services.
The initiative was designed to prioritise early awareness and educate young people on the supports available to them, with each partner contributing specialist expertise, including public education on the legal framework for gambling in South Africa and the importance of responsible gambling within licensed and regulated environments.
Mmone Tau, Free State Gambling and Liquor Authority representative, said: “South Africa has established several structures to address gambling addiction and promote responsible gambling. The National Responsible Gambling Programme remains the country’s primary support system, offering free counselling, helplines, rehabilitation referrals, and self-exclusion services to individuals and families affected by problem gambling.”
Thabo Mazibuko, University of the Free State representative, said: “The workshop played an important role in equipping students with knowledge and awareness aimed at preventing the negative influence of gambling on their lives and academic journeys. As the Institutional Social Support Office, we remain committed to student development, wellbeing, and the academic success of future leaders through programmes that promote responsible decision-making and holistic student support”.
Dean Delaney, Managing Director, SportPesa South Africa, said: “We are committed to investing in South Africa, including its young people and the communities they are part of. These workshops were designed to provide clear information about the importance of responsible gambling and where to turn if they need support.
We all have a duty to protect young people, so, that’s why we worked alongside the university, regulators law enforcement and industry bodies to ensure that the workshops provided detailed advice and guidance.”
SportPesa said the University of the Free State workshops form part of a broader commitment to responsible gaming and community engagement, with further collaborations planned with educational and regulatory partners.
