Preventing underage drinking requires more than awareness. It demands communities, schools, and families working together to equip young people with the confidence and knowledge to make healthier choices before alcohol and substance abuse take hold.
That was the message from AWARE.org and SANCA Central Rand as they marked the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by bringing together learners, educators, government representatives, and community stakeholders for a youth-focused prevention programme under the theme “Breaking the Cycle: Restricting Alcohol Availability to Children, Youth and Pregnant Women.”
The event forms part of AWARE.org’s flagship #NOtoU18 pillar, which promotes alcohol-free spaces for young people and supports evidence-based prevention, empowering young people to understand the risks associated with underage drinking .
Speaking at the event, Andrew Ross, AWARE.org Board member said:
“Every young person deserves the opportunity to make informed decisions about their future, and there is no reason why anyone under the age of 18 should consume alcohol. The #NOtoU18 pillar is about prevention, protection, and positive youth development by ensuring young people have the knowledge and confidence to choose differently.”
“Our partnership with SANCA Central Rand demonstrates the value of sustained community-based prevention programmes. When young people receive the right information, support, and environment, meaningful change is possible.”
The programme also highlighted the critical role that schools, families, community organisations, and government play in creating environments that reduce children’s exposure to alcohol and strengthen protective factors before risky behaviours develop.
Arlene Lapan, Chairperson of the SANCA Central Rand Board said:
“Prevention is everyone’s responsibility. By working together across communities, we can help young people make positive choices and reduce the harm caused by alcohol and substance abuse.
“We thank AWARE.org, our schools, sponsors, government partners, staff, and community members, for their continued commitment to protecting young people and strengthening prevention efforts.”
The event reinforced that lasting change depends on sustained partnerships that place prevention and education at the centre of community action. Through initiatives such as #NOtoU18, AWARE.org continues to support evidence-informed programmes that help young people build healthier futures and contribute to safer communities across South Africa.
