The effects of alcohol consumption on student life at a rural campus

Abstract

Universities ought to provide an enriching, joyful and wholesome learning experience for a student; however, recent trends in alcohol advertising as well as the lack of recreational activities in rural environments have nurtured an environment for alcohol abuse in rural universities. Most of the students who attend a rural university are compelled to stay on campus or board close by. More and more of these students are falling prey to alcohol abuse directly or indirectly. Very often the safety of students is compromised and most victims of alcohol abuse endure the torment in silence. Others quit studying and go back home. This study attempts to examine the fears, the risks of alcohol as part of the student culture, the harmful effects of alcohol and the consequence of peer pressure on students at a rural campus. This study is undertaken by using qualitative and quantitative research methods. The research was undertaken at the University of Zululand which is situated in the rural community of KwaDlangezwa (KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa). Perceptions and attitudes on the effects of alcohol consumption on student life at a rural campus are surveyed. Stratified random sampling allowed the researcher to divide the population into various groups. The target population of this study are students from the campus. Data was collected by means of a comprehensive literature review and through the administration of in-depth questionnaires.