A bill seeking to revive and provide a framework to regulate the Igbo apprenticeship scheme known as ‘Igba Boi’ has sailed through the second reading at the Anambra State House of Assembly.
The Bill entitled – “Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Bill 2024” – was sponsored by Mr Ejike Okechukwu, Member representing Anaocha Constituency ll.
In his submission, Okechukwu said that if the apprenticeship scheme would be regulated, it would become lucrative and reduce the rate of unemployment.
He said that the apprenticeship system was a major creator of employment in the South East in the 70s, 80s and 90s, as many youths were absorbed in it.
According to him, this is why the South East has one of the biggest markets in West Africa.
“The trainee system began to die when a servant or trainee would serve his master for years and when it would be time to settle him, stories would come up and the servant would be sacked without any compensation.
“This made most of our young people to begin to see the system as a waste of time and effort.
“This bill is, however, seeking to establish a commission to oversee and create a database to matchmake individuals with their trades or businesses of interest and with stipulated agreements.
