Botswana considers gaming as extracurricular activity in schools

The initiative would also extend to universities in the Southern African country, local media Mmegi Online reported.

“The gambling authority wants to include gaming into the curriculum by having e-sports teams, classes on game production, and scholarships available for students who excel in gaming. By legitimising gaming as a skill-building and career opportunity, the nation will further reduce the stigma surrounding it,” Botswana’s head of gambling authority said at the International Gaming Conference in Nigeria.

“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 added.