The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives in Nigeria, Benjamin Kalu, has indicated that two bills are set to be debated soon in the parliament. One bill, the National Apprenticeship Scheme, aims to address the challenges of unemployment by creating a legal framework for skills development and employment opportunities. The scheme is designed to blend theoretical education with hands-on practical training, providing a real-world application of acquired skills. The other bill proposes making the three major ethnic languages—Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo—national languages alongside English in Nigeria. The bills are part of efforts to empower the youth and bridge the skills gap in the country.
Kalu, during discussions with the management team of Buildup Integrated Services, highlighted the importance of skills development in addition to academic qualifications. He cited examples from countries like Germany and China, where less emphasis on certificates and a focus on practical skills have led to economic growth and global impact. The National Language Bill is seen as a response to the observation that many young Nigerians communicate better in their native dialects when learning a skill. The bills are expected to contribute to the economic growth, job creation, and empowerment of the youth in Nigeria.
The Deputy Speaker pledged support for the National Apprenticeship Scheme and acknowledged the importance of legislative initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship and economic growth. He expressed gratitude for the contributions of Buildup Integrated Services to skills training, apprenticeship, and entrepreneurship development in Nigeria and the African continent. The CEO of Build Up Integrated Services, Chibuike Aguene, called on the Deputy Speaker to support the legislative intervention for the institutionalization of a dual apprenticeship system in the country. The initiative aims to support 3000 youth across the federation in the first phase of the apprenticeship system.