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A bill seeking to establish a national apprenticeship scheme passed through the First Reading on the floor of the House of Representatives last Wednesday.

The private member bill, sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, aims to provide a legal framework for institutionalising the Apprenticeship Scheme.

The National Apprenticeship Scheme is a technology-driven dual apprenticeship model integrating theoretical education with hands-on practical training.

It is worth recalling that Kalu, during a courtesy call by Bildup Integrated Services (Bildup Africa) led by its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chibuike Aguene, considered enacting a law to formalize the scheme last month.

“At the 10th House of Representatives, we anchor our legislative activities on the core principle of participatory governance.

“We are laser-focused on delivering a regulatory environment that supports entrepreneurship development, encourages commerce, and facilitates the economy’s growth.

“In this vein, I acknowledge the calls for supporting legislation that institutionalizes the newly designed National Apprenticeship Scheme.

“Our legislative process is open to constructive dialogue, and we welcome your insights and recommendations. Together, let us work towards a bill that bridges the huge skills gap prevalent across the country while being the igniting point for an industrial revolution that Nigeria so dearly needs,” Hon. Kalu said.

While commending a technological initiative by Bildup Integrated Services to encourage the apprenticeship system and boost skills acquisition, Kalu also pledged to sponsor 3,000 youths across the federation in the first phase of the apprenticeship system championed by the Services in various areas of skills acquisition.

Other bills sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, which passed through the First Reading, include the National Eye Centre Act (Amendment) Bill, the National Ear Centre Bill, 2023, the National Securities Agencies Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, and the National War College Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023.