Assessing skill capability of artisans and craftsmen in Nsukka industrial market, Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Most tradesmen are trained through traditional apprenticeship system, hence ranked lowest in the labour market. Although, Nigerian artisans contribute significantly to skill acquisition and economic development, their poor training background seem to make them deficient to cope with current technological innovations and practices. For any teaching to be impactful, suitable training needs has to be standard; the survival strategies for entrepreneurship in a declining economy can be vested in training artisans, tradesmen and entrepreneurs who will man the small and medium enterprises for better economy.

Objectives: Assess strategies for teaching artisans and craftsmen in Nsukka Industrial Market; evaluate skill transfer process of master craftsmen to their apprentices; and to identify approaches for improving technical and theoretical skills of artisans and craftsmen.

Methodology: Descriptive survey design was used, questionnaire data from 544 registered tradesmen at the Nsukka Market was analysed using frequency and simple percentages.

Results: Independent learning by apprentice and introduction to visual demonstrations met rejection. The study also found illiteracy as a wedge in embracing new technological practices and equipment thereby slowing down creativity and entrepreneurship in the sector.

Conclusion: The training programme of artisans and craftsmen can be greatly enhanced through modern training in seminars, workshops, part-time & full-time and exposure through visits to other environments. Involvement of catalogues and manuals will eliminate waste of time and prevent apprentices learning by chance.

Unique Contribution: The traditional approach of tradesmen towards skill impartation was found to be prevalent; therefore, only modern methodologies and strategies can usher in creativity and entrepreneurship in improving the apprenticeship system.

Key Recommendation: Basic Education was recommended as benchmark to augment tradesmen’s educational background for better performances.