Kaya 959 Point of View with Phemelo Motene

Students Bet on Luck - and Lose - Using NSFAS Allowances

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For some university students, government study grants meant to pay for food and books are instead funding a dangerous habit, online gambling. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is meant to support low-income students, but a growing number are using their allowances to place bets on digital platforms. The consequences have been devastating - leaving many young people broke, anxious, and on academic probation. According to the National Gambling Board, South Africans wagered a record-breaking R1.5 trillion last year, a 45% surge driven by easy access to online betting sites. Among the punters: cash-strapped students chasing a quick win, and instead, gambling away their futures. Phemelo speaks to Rise Mzansi MP, Makashule Gana.
27 Oct 2025 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

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