By Austin Ogwuda
A Bill seeking to revive and as well regulate the Igbo apprenticeship scheme popularly known as ‘igba boi’ that was very popular in the 70s is underway.
Entitled ‘Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Bill 2024’, the Bill sponsored by Mr Ejike Okechukwu, Member representing Anaocha Constituency ll has passed through the Second Reading in the House.
Leading the debate, Okechukwu stated that “This Bill is seeking to establish a Commission to oversee and create a database to match-make individuals with their trades or businesses of interest and with stipulated agreements.
“The bill also looks at the rights of the ‘oga’ and the trainee. The ultimate objective is to create employment as well as improve trade and commerce in the State”, noting that “if the apprenticeship scheme is regulated, it would become lucrative and reduce the rate of unemployment”.
The lawmakers pointed out 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, saying this is why the South East has one of the biggest markets in West Africa.
He however expressed regret that “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 begin to see the system as a waste of time and effort”.
On his part, the Member representing Onitsha North Constituency ll, Patrick Okafor, contributing to the debate stated that “When there is no law, there is always abuse. With this bill, the apprenticeship scheme will become attractive again as many youths will be encouraged.
“Most people, who passed through this system, learnt the secret of becoming successful through their masters. Many billionaires and millionaires today are products of ‘Igba Boi’ scheme”, he submitted.
Ms Nkechi Ogbuefi, Member representing Anaocha Constituency l, said that the bill would help to create self-reliant youths and employers of labour, who would contribute to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the State.
The Speaker, Somtochukwu Udeze, said that the Bill was laudable as it bothered on youth employment and economic development.
The Bill was committed to the House Joint Committees on Judiciary and Justice, and Commerce, Trade and Industry for further legislative fireworks.
Source: Daily Trust