AWARE.org,
a South African non-profit organization, is addressing the issue of underage
drinking this Youth Day, 16 June 2024. Their No to Under 18 program aims to
educate youth about the health and social risks of underage drinking, as research
shows that 19.9% of South Africans, drink by the age of 13, and nearly 50% of high
school learners have had alcohol.
The organization says this initiative aims to bring awareness
to the risks associated with underage drinking namely impaired brain
development, higher chance of alcohol addiction, and increase in harmful behaviours.
AWARE.org aims to spark meaningful conversations about responsible behaviour
and promote a culture of responsible drinking by addressing underage drinking
as a whole, Mokebe Thulo, Head of the Brand for AWARE.org believes that community
leaders, parents, and educators working together can help lower the severity of
underage drinking.
Journalist: Tasha-Ree Kella
Email: tashakella13@gmail.com