Gambling Authority to introduce gaming in schools
Botswana has started preliminary discussions aimed at introducing gaming as a legitimate extracurricular activity in schools and universities, BusinessMonitor has learnt. Speaking at the International Gaming Conference in Lagos, Nigeria recently, GA CEO Emolemo Kesitilwe, said the Gambling Authority (GA) seeks to integrate gaming into the educational system, with schools offering e-sports clubs, game development courses, and scholarships for talented gamers. “By legitimising gaming as a skill-building and career opportunity, the nation will further reduce the stigma surrounding it,” he said.
Additionally, the Authority continues to lobby for investment in the development of state-of-the-art gaming facilities and arenas, which can in the future host national and international gaming tournaments, attracting gamers and fans from across the globe.
Kesitilwe emphasised that these events not only promote gaming as a respected form of entertainment but also stimulate the local economy through tourism and sponsorships. He furter pointed out that Botswana is effectively reducing the stigmatisation associated with gaming and gambling whilst promoting responsible gaming. Stigmatisation in gaming and gambling typically revolves around negative stereotypes associated with gamers and gamblers, including notions of social isolation, addiction, and unproductivity.
Kesitilwe said the achievement serves as a model for other regions striving to tackle stigmatisation in these areas and create a more inclusive and informed society. “To promote responsible gaming, we have launched a comprehensive awareness campaign that distinguishes between problem and responsible gaming and gambling. It emphasises the differences and similarities, clarifying that gaming refers to video games, e-sports, and skill-based activities, while gambling pertains to games of chance. These campaigns aim to educate the public about the benefits and potential risks of both activities,” he explained. Through the Excessive Gambling Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee, the GA collaborates with gaming and gambling industry stakeholders to develop responsible gaming and gambling programmes.
These initiatives provide information on advising players to set limits, recognise signs of addiction, and seek help when needed while emphasising that responsible participation in either activity is a valid choice. Botswana has also established mental health resources and counselling services specifically tailored to individuals dealing with gaming or gambling addiction, including their family members.
“The Authority pays 100% for services from private providers. These services are easily accessible, ensuring that those in need can seek help with the utmost privacy,” Kesitilwe highlighted. The regulatory body implements strict regulation and oversight for the industry, ensuring that all gambling establishments adhere to fair play, responsible gambling practices, and consumer protection laws. This also helps reduce the negative perception associated with gambling by fostering trust in the industry. According to Kesitilwe, the Gambling Authority funds research into the prevalence of gambling, the impact of gaming and gambling, as well as risk factors for problem gambling in society, which provides evidence-based insights that help shape policies and public perception. By presenting facts and data, Botswana counters misinformation and stereotypes. Botswana additionally supports and invests in positive gaming and gambling initiatives such as the development of e-sports teams, which showcase the positive aspects of both activities and their contributions to the economy.