JAMAICA | Groundbreaking BGLC Training Programme to fight Underage Gambling in Jamaican Schools

KINGSTON, Jamaica, September 6, 2024 - In a groundbreaking move to safeguard Jamaica's youth, the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) is set to launch an innovative Treatment Training program for guidance counsellors and deans of discipline across the nation's high schools.

This visionary initiative, aimed at tackling the rising challenge of underage gambling, marks a significant step towards creating a safer, more informed educational environment.

Spearheaded by RISE Life Management Services, this cutting-edge program is designed to equip school staff with state-of-the-art intervention techniques and preventive strategies. Mr. Richard Henry, Programme Manager of RISE Life, highlighted the urgency of this initiative in light of the rapidly evolving gambling landscape.

"We're witnessing a paradigm shift in gambling trends," Henry explained. "The digital age has ushered in new forms of online betting, particularly in the realm of e-sports and video games. Our youth are at the forefront of this digital revolution, and we must evolve our approach to protect them."

The program aims to create a network of highly skilled professionals within schools, capable of identifying early warning signs and implementing effective interventions. This proactive approach represents a significant leap from the current system of external referrals to RISE Life Management.

"By empowering our guidance counsellors and deans with specialized knowledge, we're building a first line of defense within our schools," Henry emphasized. "This isn't just about intervention; it's about creating a culture of awareness and resilience among our students."

Looking ahead, the BGLC and RISE Life envision this program as the cornerstone of a comprehensive strategy to combat underage gambling. Future plans include:

1. Developing a peer education program to harness the influence of student leaders
2. Integrating gambling awareness into the broader curriculum
3. Launching a nationwide digital campaign to educate parents and communities

"We're not just addressing a current issue; we're future-proofing our schools against the evolving challenges of the digital age," Henry concluded. "This program is the first step towards creating a generation of young Jamaicans who are informed, resilient, and equipped to make responsible decisions in an increasingly complex world."

As Jamaica takes this bold step forward, the eyes of the Caribbean and beyond will be watching, potentially setting a new standard for addressing youth gambling in the digital era.