INDIGENOUS APPRENTICESHIP AND GLOCALIZATION: SUSTAINING IGBO "IGBABOI" PRACTICES IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The Igbo apprenticeship system, or "IgbaBoi," represents a cornerstone of acquiring indigenous skills and economic empowerment of youths in Southeast Nigeria. Despite its cultural and economic significance, this system faces challenges from globalization and the dominance of Western-centric entrepreneurship training paradigms. This study examines the potential for "glocalizing" the Igbo apprenticeship system in Anambra State, Nigeria, to ensure its relevance in a globalized economy while maintaining cultural authenticity. The study investigated the socioeconomic characteristics of apprentices and the globalized elements that can be integrated into traditional frameworks to enhance practice. It also assessed perceptions about the impact of glocalization on the economic  development/productivity of the beneficiaries. The study employed a survey research design across three major cities, namely, Onitsha, Awka, and Nnewi. The study  adopts theory of structuration, which emphasizes the interplay between structure and agency in shaping social practices The sample size was 357 apprentices selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency count and percentage). The study revealed a strong representation of young apprentices, aged between 18 and 25 years, and the dominance of males and secondary school leavers in the area. 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 recommends, among others, that integration of globalized practices, such as technological tools and cross-cultural collaboration, can transform the indigenous apprenticeship model and promote skill acquisition and economic empowerment of youths in Anambra state and beyond.