NSFAS, Gambling Board join forces to educate students on gambling risks

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the National Gambling Board (NGB) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at protecting students at tertiary institutions from gambling-related harm and protect public funds allocated for education.

The initiative comes amid a rapid growth in South Africa’s gambling industry. According to Statistics South Africa, gross gambling revenue increased by 25,7% to R59,3 billion in the 2024/25 financial year.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the two entities said the collaboration is in response to growing concerns about increased gambling among young people, particularly on illegal online platforms.

NGB AND NSFAS partner to support student success at tertiary institutions and strengthen responsible gambling awareness.#NSFAS2026 #StudentSuccess #ResponsibleGambling #AccessToEducation #YouthEmpowerment pic.twitter.com/ZFT5NQPXbn

— NSFAS (@myNSFAS) February 18, 2026

There are also fears that student allowances are being misused for gambling rather than essential academic needs.

The initiative comes amid rapid growth in South Africa’s gambling industry. According to Statistics South Africa, gross gambling revenue rose by 25.7% to R59.3 billion in the 2024/25 financial year.

Research cited by the organisations points to financial pressure, aggressive advertising, easy online access, and targeted promotional offers as key drivers behind the rise in youth gambling. NSFAS and NGB warned that this trend could negatively affect students’ academic performance, financial stability and overall well-being.

Under the campaign message: “Your skill is the bag; don’t gamble with it,” students are being encouraged to protect their education funding and prioritise their long-term goals.

NSFAS reaffirmed its mandate to expand access to higher education by funding tuition, accommodation, meals, and other essential learning needs. The NGB, meanwhile, said it remains committed to ensuring that gambling activities operate fairly and within the law, while protecting minors and vulnerable groups from social and economic harm.

The partnership will be formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, which will establish a governance framework for joint interventions at universities and TVET colleges nationwide.

Key focus areas will include on-campus education programmes, financial literacy campaigns, and awareness initiatives highlighting the risks of online and illegal gambling.

Acting NGB Chief Executive Officer, Lungile Dukwana, said the collaboration places particular emphasis on confronting the normalisation of gambling through digital advertising, social media, and mobile applications that increasingly target young people.

Both organisations say the partnership underscores their shared commitment to student success and consumer protection.

Written by: Realeboga Nke