Taking Risks Wisely: School Edition (TRWSE) is an educational initiative designed to inform school-aged learners and vulnerable groups about the dangers of illegal underage gambling in South Africa. Although gambling is prohibited for individuals under the age of 18, many young people are still exposed to and participate in gambling activities, particularly through informal games and online platforms. The initiative helps learners understand how they may first encounter gambling through activities such as coin-based games like Zwepe, dice, card games, or betting on everyday games like Ludo. It also explores the various social and environmental factors that contribute to underage gambling, including peer pressure, exposure to gambling culture, and the normalisation of risky behaviour. Through this programme, learners are equipped with knowledge about the legal restrictions on gambling, the risks associated with it at a young age, and the support systems available for those who may be affected.
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Learners are particularly vulnerable to the normalisation of gambling through exposure to messaging. Children are at risk of problems with gambling because of developmental and cognitive immaturity, as well as a susceptibility to family and peer influences and marketing campaigns. As a result, the Responsible Gambling for Educators course was developed.
This training allows an educator to recognise learners who may be gambling themselves or who live within a gambling-disordered family or caregiver dynamic. Short- and long-term consequences upon a learner who is affected are elaborated upon, and examples of how an Educator may be able to incorporate the theme of responsible gambling into various learning subjects are provided. Referrals and how to process these are explained.
Recognition of the value of the training has been acknowledged by the South African Council for Educators (SACE), with 10 Continued Professional Development Points awarded to Educators who attend the virtual or on-site training. To provide a holistic integration.
To ensure that learners understand the legal restrictions
on gambling for minors, including age limits and the
consequences of underage gambling.
To enable learners to recognise and explain the risks and consequences associated with gambling at a young age, including financial, emotional, and social impacts.
To ensure that learners are aware of the support and treatment options available for individuals affected by gambling addiction, including where and how to seek help.
University students are legally permitted to gamble and bet in South Africa once they are 18 years or older. However, younger students remain vulnerable to gambling-related harm, particularly in an increasingly digital environment where online betting and sports wagering are easily accessible. As a tech-savvy generation, many young adults engage with gambling through online and mobile platforms, often without fully understanding the associated risks.
The NRGP has seen a growing number of individuals seeking counselling and treatment for gambling-related harm. The Taking Risks Wisely: Tertiary Edition (TRWTE) aims to equip students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to make informed decisions, recognise risky gambling behaviours and access support when needed, helping them protect their financial well-being, academic success and future opportunities.
Interactive exhibitions, educational activations, student workshops, and awareness initiatives aimed at promoting responsible gambling and informed decision-making.
An accredited CPD training programme for social workers, healthcare practitioners, student wellness professionals, counselling services, and student affairs personnel, focused on early intervention, referral pathways, and collaborative support for students affected by problem gambling.
