International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume V, Issue IX, September 2021 | ISSN 2454–6186

Decline of The Potency of Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme in Anambra State, Nigeria.

Okeke Tabansi Callistus, Osang Paul Abijia

Department of Economics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.

Abstract: The study-examined Igbo apprenticeship scheme in Anambra state. Its potency as it were, as it is and will be. The principal motivations of the scheme are the seed capital and mentorship given to the apprentices at the end of their indentureship and generation of employment in the state. But, the potency of the scheme is perceived to be waning. The study therefore seeks to interrogate the perceived decline of the potency of the scheme, utilising the observation method in informal workplaces and trading sites spread across the state. The study discovered that, the unwillingness of young men to take up the businesses of their fathers, study courses that will promote their growth and malicious stealing of their masters money by the apprentices are key factors that led to the decline of the scheme’s potency and the study therefore recommended that young men should key into family businesses so as to promote the heritage of business sustainability being transferred from generation to generation. Again, there should be a well-defined contractual agreement rather than oral agreement between the masters and the intending apprentices so as to protect the job creation intent of the scheme.

Keywords: Igbo apprenticeship scheme, Potency and Employment generation.

I. INTRODUCTION

Apprenticeship is a system for training a new generation of practitioners of a trade or profession with on-the-job training . Apprenticeships can also enable practitioners to gain a license to practice in a regulated occupation. Most of their training is done while working for an employer who helps the apprentices learn their trade or profession, in exchange for their continued labor for an agreed period after they have achieved measurable competencies. Apprenticeship lengths vary significantly across sectors, professions, roles and cultures. In some cases people who successfully complete an apprenticeship can reach the “journeyman” or professional certification level of competence.
Olulu & Udeorah (2018) posits that apprenticeship may be considered as a system of learning whereby an individual trained in a professional skill in a practical way through a structured program of on the-job training. It usually involves acquiring knowledge, mechanical skills and the development of an attitude or discipline for a particular job.
Orugun & Nafiu (2014) opines that apprenticeship provides a ladder of opportunity to obtain critical skills businesses require to flourish, placing apprenticeship as the seedbed of entrepreneurship. He further stated that, the combination of these attributes, the business and entrepreneurial activities of