The Northern Cape Gambling and Liquor Board recently visited schools in Kuruman and surrounding areas in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District to address underage drinking and gambling.
THE NORTHERN Cape Gambling and Liquor Board (NCGLB) recently visited schools in Kuruman and surrounding areas in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District to address underage drinking and gambling.
The NCGLB assistant manager for education and awareness, Johanna Oss, said that they have launched a campaign targeting under-18s to address the issues of underage drinking and gambling, with the goal of promoting a culture of responsibility.
She highlighted that it was illegal for liquor traders to sell alcohol to children, while gambling operators should insist on identity verification if they were uncertain about a patron’s age.
“As a society, many do not realise the extent or implications of underage drinking. Many parents, adults and caregivers inadvertently encourage this practice by sending children to buy alcohol or to fetch alcohol from the fridge or liquor cabinet.
“Advertising seeks to make alcohol consumption ‘glamorous’ while children become desensitised to its impact and effects.”
Oss pointed out that preventing underage gambling and the consumption of alcohol was vital because of their addictive qualities.
“Underage gambling and drinking have shown to result in unlawful criminal behaviour, poor academic performance, a higher rate of school absence and dropout and disruption during classes,” said Oss.
She encouraged the public to report licensed traders who were serving liquor to minors as well as any illegal gambling machines and illegal shebeens to the NCGLB on 087 310 5318 or 053 831 2646.
