A bill to revive and regulate the Igbo apprenticeship scheme, known as ‘Igba Boi’, has passed a second reading at the Anambra House of Assembly.
Sponsored by Ejike Okechukwu, representing Anaocha Constituency II, the ‘Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Bill 2024’ aims to formalize and boost the Igbo apprenticeship system.
Okechukwu emphasized that regulating the scheme would make it more profitable and reduce unemployment.
He highlighted the system’s historical role in providing employment in the South-East during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, contributing to the region’s vibrant 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 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 match 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,” he said.
Patrick Okafor, a member representing Onitsha North Constituency II, said the bill would restore confidence in the Igbo apprenticeship system.