Authorities have warned students against gambling with bursaries, NSFAS allowances and other education funds. Image: AI generated.
NSFAS
1Min
South Africa
Government urges students to avoid gambling as financial risks grow
Authorities have warned students against gambling with bursaries, NSFAS allowances and other education funds, saying the habit could jeopardise their academic future and expose them to debt and fraud.
The government has urged students across South Africa to refrain from gambling, warning that the misuse of financial aid intended for education could have serious academic, financial and emotional consequences.
In an awareness campaign released on 21 July 2026, government called on universities, TVET colleges, student leaders, families and communities to work together to educate young people about the dangers of gambling and to support those already affected.
Officials cautioned that online gambling can quickly escalate from small wagers to significant financial losses, emotional distress and poor academic performance. Students were reminded not to use NSFAS allowances, bursaries, stipends or internship salaries for gambling, as doing so could result in the withdrawal of financial support.
The campaign also warned students to avoid unlicensed betting platforms and unverified websites, which may expose users to fraud, debt and the loss of funds.
Government highlighted several warning signs of gambling addiction, including borrowing money after losing bets, lying to family or friends about gambling habits, and repeatedly trying to recover money already lost.
Students experiencing gambling-related problems have been encouraged to seek help through the National Responsible Gambling Programme before the situation worsens.
