Integration of Apprenticeship Scheme into NCE (Technical) Curriculum Programme Towards Self-Reliance in the 21st Century

Abstract

This paper examined how to integrate apprenticeship scheme into the NCE (Technic al) curriculum programme towards the positive realization of self ­ reliance by its graduates in the 21st Century. The paper exposed the failure of the current TVET programmes in creating employment and wealth creators against seekers of white collar jobs as well as mentioned the unemployment alarming rates amongst our youths. This paper also explains the efforts of the National Directorate on Employment with its seven folds of employment plan which in no doubt failed woefully. This paper is therefore of the view that apprenticeship scheme be integrated into the NCE (Technical) Programme through its curriculum reform drawing from the experiences of priority placed on app renticeship scheme by developed countries who saw this as a bedrock for industrial and economic revolution some centuries ago. To this end, the paper recommended seven points that can lead to curriculum reforms providing for one full year practical Apprenticeship Scheme training in industries in the second year of the NCE programme while the first and third year be devoted to academic, teaching practice, project work and essential certifications.