The Gambling Authority has co-hosted the official launch of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South East Region of the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, formalizing a two-year partnership to support the Region’s Staff Excellence Awards and promote responsible gambling awareness among teachers and learners.

Under the agreement, the Authority will support the Ministry’s Staff Excellence Awards for two years, recognizing educator’s contributions to learner development and welfare. The official launch included an engagement session attended by representatives from the Ministry and Guidance and Counseling teachers from schools across the South East Region.

Speaking at the event, Acting Director of Responsible Gambling and Corporate Affairs at the Gambling Authority, Ms Linnet Mafukidze, highlighted the shared commitment of both institutions to protecting children from gambling-related harm. Mafukidze also expressed appreciation to the Ministry for granting the Authority access to 77 schools to conduct responsible gambling education for teachers and learners.

Acting Director of the South East Region, Mr Kwante Kwante, emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives that motivate and recognize educators, noting their contribution to learner welfare and development. Meanwhile, Performance Improvement Coordinator Mr Lesoto Sebogodi highlighted the vital role of Guidance and Counseling practitioners in addressing underage gambling and raising awareness about the dangers of illegal gambling.

Through the partnership, the Gambling Authority and the Ministry aim to strengthen responsible gambling education in schools, raise awareness of the risks associated with underage gambling and support safer learning environments across the South East Region. The agreement reinforces both institution’s commitment to protecting children, promoting responsible gambling awareness and fostering collaboration between gambling regulation and education stakeholders.