The National Responsible Gambling Programme has officially launched the Taking Risks Wisely School Edition in Gqeberha for May 2026. This critical initiative targets school going learners across Motherwell and New Brighton from 11 to 15 May 2026 to combat the alarming rise of illegal underage gambling in South African households.
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Why is Underage Gambling Increasing in South Africa?
While underage gambling is strictly prohibited by law, the reality is that it has become an attractive outlet for children and adolescents. Research indicates that many youths turn to illegal gambling as a means to supplement their families' incomes during periods of severe financial hardship.
Beyond financial pressures, adolescents engage in gambling to cope with stress, succumb to peer pressure, or seek excitement and social acceptance. Sibongile Simelane-Quntana, the Executive Director of the SA Responsible Gambling Foundation, explicitly notes that easy access to gambling platforms, exposure to gambling culture, and the normalisation of risky behaviour all play a major role in drawing young people into these activities.
What is the Taking Risks Wisely Initiative?
The Taking Risks Wisely School Edition is a targeted awareness campaign deployed in partnership with the Hollywood Foundation and the Eastern Cape Gambling Board. The primary goal is harm reduction and equipping learners with effective coping strategies.
The educational sessions are designed to ensure that learners understand the strict legal restrictions surrounding gambling for minors. Furthermore, the programme educates students on the severe risks and consequences associated with early gambling initiation, while providing alternative forms of entertainment and highlighting available treatment options for addiction.
Which Gqeberha Schools Are Participating?
The initiative is rolling out across specific primary and high schools in the Motherwell and New Brighton areas between 11 and 15 May 2026.
Participating Schools in Motherwell:
- Dumani Primary School, 29 Khwalamanzi Street
- Vukani Bantu Senior Primary School, Chalumna Street N.U. 5
- Enkululekweni Senior Primary School, Ward 54, N.U. 29
- Imbasa Primary School, N.U. 12 Xhama Street
Participating Schools in New Brighton:
- Steven Mazungula Senior Primary School, Magongo Street
- Ben Sinuka Senior Primary School, 1 Gunguluza Street
- Sophakama High School, 12 Negesi Road
- Ithembelihle High School, Marwanqa Street
- Kama Senior Primary School, Sheya Kulati Drive
- Cowan High School, 20 Madala Street
How to Access Free Counselling Services
The National Responsible Gambling Programme offers free psychoeducational and psychotherapeutic counselling services for minors affected by gambling, provided there is parental or legal guardian consent. These free support services are also fully available to adults.
If you or someone in your home is impacted by illegal underage gambling or problem gambling, you can reach out for free, confidential help by calling the Toll Free Counselling Line at 0800 006 008 or by chatting with counsellors on WhatsApp at 076 675 071.
FAQ: Taking Risks Wisely Initiative 2026
Who manages the Taking Risks Wisely programme?
The initiative is run by the National Responsible Gambling Programme, with the SA Responsible Gambling Foundation serving as its custodian, in partnership with the Hollywood Foundation and the Eastern Cape Gambling Board.
When does the Gqeberha school rollout take place?
The educational sessions are scheduled to run at selected schools in Motherwell and New Brighton from 11 to 15 May 2026.
Why do adolescents participate in illegal gambling?
Research identifies several factors, including financial hardship, social influence, peer pressure, the need to belong, sensation seeking personality traits, and easy access to gambling advertising.
Are the counselling services free?
Yes. The National Responsible Gambling Programme provides free support and counselling services for both adults and minors (with guardian consent) impacted by problem gambling.
Written by Raquel Jacobs
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