PUBLIC HEARING: Anambra Assembly Moves to Make Igbo Apprenticeship 7 Years

By Uche Eke

Plans are on to peg the benchmark for Igbo apprenticeship to seven years in Anambra State.

Similarly persons wishing to become apprentice must attend basic education before doing so.

This is contained in a bill before the Anambra State House of Assembly tagged Anambra State Igbo apprenticeship bill 2024 and presented for public hearing at the legislative complex, Awka.

The Speaker of the House , Mr Somtochukwu Udeze, while declaring the hearing open, said the bill when passed will help to prevent abuse, promote transparency, and preserve a key cultural and economic practice in the Igbo society.

The sponsor of the bill and member representing Anaocha constituency 2, Mr Ejike Okechukwu, explained that it also seeks to discourage exploitation by ensuring that all contractual agreements are clearly defined, with written agreements spelling out duties, duration, and conditions for settlement at the end of the apprenticeship.

According to him, the key features of the bill include the compulsory documentation of apprenticeship agreements, the creation of a database of all registered apprentices and their masters, as well as a platform for resolving disputes between the parties.

In a remark the Chairman House Committee on Commerce, Trade and Industry, Mr Innocent Ojike representing Oyi constituency said the bill will no doubt boost investor confidence and standardize the traditional system to align with global best practices.

Stakeholders at the hearing, including market leaders, Masters and their apprentices commended the House of Assembly for the Public hearing, noting that when passed , it will help to strengthen the Igba Boi system that has produced many successful business people in Anambra state and the globe.

The bill also has provision for the establishment of Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Commission which shall be responsible for the issuance of Certificate of completion to the apprentice on completion of his or her agreement period.