Online Gambling Prevention Strategies Through Character Education in High Schools

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technology has brought both benefits and challenges, including the rise of online gambling among adolescents. This phenomenon threatens moral values, academic achievement, and the future of young people. This study aims to explore prevention strategies for online gambling through character education in secondary schools. The community service program was conducted at SMK 3 Perguruan Cikini with the participation of 11th-grade students. The approach included interactive lectures, discussions, and role-playing activities to build students’ awareness and self-control in avoiding online gambling. Results showed increased awareness of the negative impacts of online gambling, positive changes in students’ attitudes, and a supportive school environment fostering character education. It is concluded that character education is an effective preventive strategy to protect students from the adverse effects of online gambling and to build a morally strong generation ready to face digital era challenges.