West Texas A&M University (WT), situated in Canyon, Texas, and a part of the Texas A&M University system since 1990, has put in place a complete ban on using school networks and equipment to access online gambling sites. With immediate effect, this new policy attempts to reduce the growing influence of gambling on college campuses.
WT President Walter V. Wendler reaffirmed on Monday that the institution has completely barred users of any WT-owned networks or devices from accessing online gambling websites. The ruling comes after an essay that highlighted the increasing number of predatory gambling websites that target college students in the United States and was published in the Amarillo Globe-News.
WT’s ban extends to all university-owned devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets, restricting access to gambling sites when connected to university networks. This policy also applies to WT’s WiFi connections at various locations, including the Harrington Academic Hall WTAMU Amarillo Center, WT Enterprise Center, Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, and Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
Rising Concerns About Gambling Addiction Among College Students
The university cited data from The Conversation, which reported that around 6% of college students struggle with gambling addiction—double the national average among adults. Wendler emphasized the unique vulnerability of college students, noting their susceptibility to “drug and substance abuse” during this formative stage of their lives.
Wendler expressed concern over the increasing availability of online gambling and sports betting, which he believes could lead to more entrenched gambling behaviors among students. “There is not a single thread of evidence showing predatory gambling has a positive impact on academic excellence. And the pursuit of excellence is our first job,” Wendler wrote, underscoring the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and productive academic environment.
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