Unemployment: Embrace National Apprenticeship Scheme, Entrepreneur Tells Nigerians

An indigenous technology company, Bildup Integrated Services Limited, has urged unemployed graduates, students, artisans and other professionals to key into the proposed national apprenticeship scheme.

The scheme is a technology-driven dual apprenticeship model that translates theoretical education into practice expertise.

The encouragement is coming as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, last week mulled a bill to give a legal framework to the scheme and also institutionalise the idea, promising to sponsor 3000 youth across Nigeria in it.

In a press statement on Sunday, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Bildup Services, Chibuike Aguene, said the scheme is designed to address the skills gap and talent shortage in various sectors of the economy by providing learners with the opportunity to acquire relevant industry experience while pursuing their academic qualifications.

He added that the scheme will partner leading institutions, experts, researchers, and business leaders to create responsive learning programs that meet the skills and talent needs of diverse industries.

According to Aguene, the scheme will also provide learners with access to mentorship, guidance, and networking opportunities that will enhance their career prospects and employability.

He said: “The National Apprenticeship Scheme will serve as the vital bridge that transforms academic knowledge into practical expertise, ensuring that individuals not only grasp theoretical concepts but also gain hands-on experience relevant to the demands of their chosen fields.

“The National Apprenticeship Scheme is open to students, school leavers, young graduates, and professionals who are interested in developing their skills and competencies in various domains such as engineering, information technology, food and beverage, manufacturing, automotive, artificial intelligence, data science, cyber security, hospitality, agriculture, health and well-being, financial services, education, product management, logistics and supply chain, construction, advertising and marketing, animation and design, creative arts, and more.

“The scheme will also cater to apprentices such as mechanic, carpenters, plumbers, retailers, electricians, fashion designer and more, who want to upgrade their skills and knowledge in their respective trades. The scheme will offer flexible and customised learning pathways that suit the needs and preferences of each learner. The scheme will also leverage on our digital platform and tools to deliver engaging and interactive learning experiences that foster collaboration, innovation, and creativity.”

Aguene also said the national apprenticeship scheme is a game-changer for the Nigerian education system and the economy at large as it will empower learners with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century and contribute to the development and growth of the nation.

“The scheme will also create a pool of qualified and competent talent that will attract and retain local and foreign investments and drive the competitiveness and productivity of various sectors.

“Bildup is inviting interested individuals, institutions, and organizations to join the National Apprenticeship Scheme and be part of the movement that is transforming education and industry in Nigeria,” he added.

Bildup CEO, Chibuike Aguene