Kenya's JOOUST University develops gambling policy framework
JOOUST, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, is in the process of developing a policy framework that will help regulate gambling activities in learning institutions. The university administration has observed that gambling activities have been on the increase, and their academic focus and productivity are at stake in a low-key manner.
Recent statistics have shown that there are many people in the community who are in the habit of pursuing quick wealth through betting platforms. The research has attributed this behaviour to economic pressures and uncertainty among the youth.
Research reveals worrying trends
Last year, JOOUST University released a detailed research report on gambling patterns within its community. The findings painted a troubling picture for both learners and teaching staff. At least 70 per cent of students involved in gambling were on the verge of addiction. Many also reported stress and even suicidal tendencies linked to repeated betting losses.
The research further showed that over 30 per cent of academic staff were also engaged in gambling. This participation reportedly reduced concentration and affected their productivity at work. Students frequently used HELB funds to gamble rather than cover tuition and living expenses. Some then struggled with unpaid fees and mounting financial pressure.
Policy and intervention measures
The proposed gambling harm intervention policy aims to promote responsible gambling and shield the varsity fraternity. It also seeks to ensure students focus entirely on their academic studies.
JOOUST University managers plan several measures to discourage harmful betting within university compounds. These include structured awareness programs, counselling, and mentorship support services.
Technology will also play a central role in restricting access to betting platforms. Officials are considering ICT controls and digital firewalls across university networks. The team also plans to partner with HELB for direct fee payment systems.
Funding and broader rollout
The recommendations of the research were funded by the Bristol hub. They will be distributed to the University of Nairobi, Bristol University in the UK, University of Lagos and the University of Cape Town in South Africa.
Speaking during the stakeholder engagement forum, Professor Joseph Bosire confirmed fresh support for the initiative. He said the institution secured an additional 6,000 pounds to develop a policy for broader adoption. The framework will later be cascaded to universities across the country.
Bosire emphasised that regulation, not prohibition, remains the university’s guiding principle. “The policy on how to mitigate gambling harm effects is just a single intervention; we also have counselling and mentorship programs, and we are considering the use of technology and firewalls to regulate gambling within the university,” Bosire remarked.
JOOUST’s collaboration with regulators
Gambling Regulatory Authority(GRA) Assistant Director Oluoch Oyucho attended the forum and commended the university’s research efforts. He said the findings would guide key policy decisions affecting institutions of higher learning. The authority pledged to collaborate with universities and other stakeholders to mitigate gambling harm.
However, Oluoch dismissed claims directly linking suicide cases to gambling without verified evidence. “As an Authority, we have learnt through the media about suicide cases in the country linked to gambling. I want to say that the reports cannot be substantiated,” said Oluoch.
National industry context
According to GRA, formerly referred to as the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), there were 99 registered gaming companies nationwide. The government estimated it collected Sh24.6 billion in taxes from gaming companies in 2024. Against this backdrop, JOOUST hopes its framework sets a responsible example for campuses nationwide.
Subscribe HERE to SiGMA’s Top 10 News countdown and SiGMA’s weekly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest iGaming News from the world’s iGaming authority, and benefit from subscriber-only offers.
