Improving The Survival Rate of SMEs: Modernizing The Igbo Apprenticeship System (Imu Ahia)

The Igbo apprenticeship system has long existed, creating start-up businesses and new entrepreneurs. It is said to be the largest business incubation system in the world. This system has been insinuated to be secret of the most industrious tribe in Nigeria (Igbos), however because it is wrongly assumed to be a program for those who can’t be successful with formal education, it is not attractive to the youth. This study aims to modernize this system. Literatures were reviewed pertaining the origin, diversity, success and limitations of the apprenticeship system in general and Igbo apprenticeship system in particular. Having identified the gaps and loopholes of the system, a suitable educational model was proposed combining general and apprenticeship education. Recommendations were also provided based on international best practices. It was discovered that the system has become unattractive to the youths. Amongst others, it was recommended that the system should be reviewed such that it creates an innovative ecosystem. This study will facilitate the improvement of the Igbo- Apprenticeship system in Nigeria.

Author(s): Abubakar Rufai , Valentina Assim, Iroh Emmanuel

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