DISRUPTION IN IGBO APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME: IMPLICATIONS FOR ENTREPRENEIRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA

Abstract

The Igbo ethnic group in Nigeria is known for achieving appreciable success in business and entrepreneurial activities. This study examines possible disruptions, challenges and limitations on Igbo apprenticeship (Igba Boyi) and the implications for entrepreneurial
development in South-east Nigeria. Applying conceptual analysis, the study critically surf the literature and investigate the major areas covering the concept of Igbo apprenticeship (Igba Boyi), various types of apprenticeship, the relationship between apprenticeship and
entrepreneurship, history behind Igba boyi apprenticeship and recent disruptions’ or challenges bedeviling the Igba Boyi in South East Nigeria. Findings revealed that there is dishonesty on the side of the mentor and the apprentice. that it was towards the expiration
of the agreed apprenticeship period in some cases that Masters accuse the apprentice of frivolous crimes and send them away just to avoid their contractual obligations and thus deprive them of the settlement entitlements. In conclusion, dishonesty on the part of the
Master or the apprentice is a source of disruption to the good intentions of the Igba-Boyi apprenticeship scheme. The policy implications to the government and financial institutions in Nigeria are to play mediating roles between the master and apprentice by introducing insurance scheme for “Igba boyi” to enable the apprentice to access start-up capital grants in case their “Oga” (mentor) fails to settle them at the completion of their apprenticeship.