Vaping Crisis Among South African Students: Alarming Stats, Controversial Regulations, and What Parents Need to Know for 2023

2 mins read
v a

As students in South Africa prepare for year-end exams, many are turning to vaping as a coping mechanism for academic stress. However, accessibility to vaping products for young individuals has become a growing concern, with alarming statistics revealing that a significant portion of high school students use these products. As regulation efforts are underway, concerns arise about unintended consequences, but urgent action and increased awareness are necessary to protect the well-being of young people.

Alarming Statistics

A study conducted by the University of Cape Town Lung Institute revealed alarming statistics. The research included about 6,000 pupils from 12 schools across three provinces and discovered that 26.5% of Grade 12 students participated in vaping. Furthermore, 17.4% of Grade 11, 13% of Grade 10, and 10.8% of Grade 9 pupils were also found to use vaping products.

Accessibility Issues

Asanda Gcoyi, CEO of the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA), voiced concern about the issue of accessibility. Many young people have confirmed purchasing vaping products themselves, sometimes even with assistance from their parents. The growing problem lies in their effortless access to these products.

Misleading Claims

Dr. Catherine Egbe of the South African Medical Research Council disputes popular claims that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes. She asserts that this belief is merely industry propaganda and that no studies support the idea of vaping being 95% safer than smoking. The lack of regulation surrounding vaping products in South Africa further exacerbates the issue, as there is no control over the import, manufacturing, and marketing of these items.

Regulation Efforts

Acknowledging the need for regulation, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced during his budget speech earlier this year intentions to impose an excise duty on vaping tobacco products. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) confirmed in April that nicotine and nicotine-substitute solutions used in vaping products would be subjected to a flat excise duty rate of R2.90/ml, effective from 1 June 2023.

Simultaneously, the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill currently in parliament aims to enforce more stringent regulations. The bill seeks to prohibit the sale and free distribution of tobacco products and electronic delivery systems to minors, among other provisions.

Concerns with Regulations

While VPASA welcomes some aspects of the bill, it also expresses concern about the “unintended consequences” that may arise. The organization fears that the legislation could lead to the proliferation of informal distribution channels, which would counteract efforts to restrict youth access to vaping products.

The alarming rise of vaping among students in South Africa necessitates urgent attention and action. Stricter regulations and increased awareness of the potential dangers of vaping are essential to address this growing concern and protect the well-being of young people.

1. What percentage of Grade 12 students in South Africa were found to be using vaping products, according to the University of Cape Town Lung Institute study?

The University of Cape Town Lung Institute study revealed that 26.5% of Grade 12 students in South Africa were using vaping products.

2. What is one of the major concerns regarding accessibility issues of vaping products?

The concern with accessibility issues of vaping products is that young individuals have easy access to them, with some even purchasing the products themselves or with assistance from their parents.

3. What is one of the major concerns of Dr. Catherine Egbe regarding the lack of regulation surrounding vaping products in South Africa?

Dr. Catherine Egbe is concerned that the lack of regulation surrounding vaping products in South Africa has led to misleading claims that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes, which may be industry propaganda. She further asserts that there is no evidence to support the idea of vaping being 95% safer than smoking.

4. What are the current regulation efforts being made in South Africa regarding vaping products?

The South African government is taking steps to regulate vaping products by imposing an excise duty on these products and passing the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, which aims to prohibit the sale and free distribution of tobacco products and electronic delivery systems to minors, among other provisions.

5. What concerns does the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) have regarding the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill?

While the VPASA welcomes some aspects of the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, the organization expresses concern about the potential unintended consequences that may arise, such as the proliferation of informal distribution channels, which may counteract efforts to restrict youth access to vaping products.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

Previous Story

The Untold Truth About Cape Town’s Fireworks Laws: What You Don’t Know Could Cost You This Festive Season

Next Story

Trailblazing Milestone: South Africa’s First Specialized Dental Facility for Kids and Special Needs Unveiled in Western Cape

Latest from Blog

Echoes of the Tide: Six Soulful Coastal Retreats in South Africa

South Africa’s coastline is a magical place where land and sea meet in wild, beautiful ways. From the rugged hiking trails of the Wild Coast to the peaceful village of Scarborough, each spot invites visitors to slow down and listen to nature’s ancient stories. At De Hoop, you can watch gentle whales play, while Noetzie’s fairytale stone castles and Cape Vidal’s lively wildlife add wonder to the shore. These soulful retreats offer quiet moments to reflect, feel alive, and connect deeply with the ocean’s timeless rhythm.

The Transformation of Firefighting in South Africa: Private Players, Public Power, and a Nation in Flux

Private firefighting services like Fidelity SecureFire are changing how South Africa fights fires by offering faster, paid responses that challenge traditional public fire departments. While these private teams often arrive first at emergencies, their unregulated presence causes confusion and legal worries, as cities struggle to coordinate and maintain control. This shift sparks a big debate about fairness and public safety—should fire protection be a public right or a service you pay for? As private and public firefighters race side by side, South Africa faces tough questions about equality, community trust, and the future of emergency care.

Woolworths Redefines Food Shopping: The Durbanville Food Emporium Experience

The Woolworths Durbanville Food Emporium transforms grocery shopping into a vibrant, joyful adventure. Shoppers can watch live cooking demos, get expert advice from fishmongers and butchers, and enjoy beautifully crafted flower bouquets made just for them. With a rich mix of international foods, fresh baked treats, and a cozy wine corner, every visit feels special and inspiring. The store also cares deeply about the planet, using sustainable packaging and energysaving designs. This Emporium isn’t just about buying food—it’s about discovering, connecting, and enjoying every moment.

A Night of Ordeal and the Anatomy of Rescue: Lessons from Jonkershoek’s Panorama Circuit

Jonkershoek’s Panorama Circuit is a wild, beautiful place where nature can turn fierce without warning. A young hiker learned this the hard way when a sudden storm trapped him in cold, dark mountains overnight. Thanks to brave search teams, he was found safe, teaching us that careful planning and respect for the mountain’s power are vital. Always bring extra supplies, share your plans, and never depend only on your phone. Adventure here is amazing—but only if you’re truly prepared.

A New Wave: Luke Thompson and the Evolution of South African Surfing

Luke Thompson, a young surfer from Durban, made waves by winning the Ballito Pro, a big contest in South Africa that’s part of the global World Surf League Challenger Series. His win is a proud moment, showing that South Africa’s surfing is growing stronger and producing new champions. Against wild ocean winds and fierce competitors, Luke’s hard work and skill helped him rise to the top. This victory is not just his own—it’s a sign of hope and a bright future for South African surfing on the world stage.