The number of young people vaping in South Africa is on the rise, raising growing concerns among educators, health professionals and parents. In response, Nishtara Recovery & Wellness hosted a Vaping Dialogue on 30 July at Baitun Nur Hall in Lenasia, bringing together learners, community members and key stakeholders to discuss the dangers of vaping.
The dialogue comes amid alarming statistics. Recent studies show that over 36% of high school students in South Africa have tried vaping, with nearly 17% actively vaping, many starting between ages 14 and 16. Among university students aged 18–24, 26% reported current e-cigarette use.
Nazia Mohamed Salejie, Nishtara’s Outreach Coordinator, told GLOBE POST: “Key stakeholders, including CANSA, the National Council Against Smoking, Protect Our Next, the Tobacco Free Youth Forum, a psychiatrist Dr Pillay and our therapists Mandla Tshuma, presented on the short- and long-term effects of vaping, the cycle of addiction and the Tobacco Control Act. We also engaged the youth in an open discussion addressing myths versus facts about vaping.”
Lotus School of Excellence has taken a proactive stance against vaping. “We constantly advise learners on the health risks and involve them in outreach programms. Earlier this year, we publicly destroyed over 65 vapes confiscated from students to highlight the dangers,” said principal Bangs Naidoo.
Naidoo warned that the easy availability of flavored vapes and the permissive attitudes of some parents make the problem worse. Both Nishtara and Lotus School emphasize that education and community involvement are key to curbing youth vaping. The dialogue not only provided vital information but also encouraged active participation by learners, reinforcing the message that vaping is harmful and avoidable.
Images: Nishtara Recovery & Wellness
