SUSTAINABLE INDIGENOUS APPRENTICESHIP AND GLOCALISATION IN ENUGU STATE NIGERIA

The Indigenous apprenticeship system is a springboard for teasing out self-employment among young adults in African communities. The extent of unemployment, un-employability and underemployment in the 21st century is alarming. The Igbo apprenticeship model or Igbaboi,’ Imu Olu, Imu Ahia represents a cornerstone for acquiring indigenous skills and economic empowerment by the youths. Despite its economic significance, this system faces challenges from globalisation and the dominance of Western-centric entrepreneurship training paradigms. The research examined the potential for glocalizing the Indigenous apprenticeship system in Nigeria, investigated the socioeconomic characteristics of apprentices and the globalized elements that can be integrated into traditional frameworks to enhance practice and sustainability. The study employed a survey research design and adopted the structuration theory. The sample size was 357 apprentices selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The study revealed a strong representation of young apprentices, the dominance of males and secondary school leavers in the training. It was also found that the participants strongly agreed that integrating globalized practices in the Indigenous apprenticeship model has a positive impact on the economic productivity of beneficiaries. The study recommended the integration of globalized practices in the indigenous apprenticeship model to upscale skill acquisition and economic sustainability.