APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM AND BUSINESS GROWTH IN SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

This study examined the relationship between the apprenticeship system and business growth in Southeast Nigeria, focusing on mentoring, entrepreneurial skills acquisition, and access to start-up capital. Guided by Human Capital Theory (Becker, 1964), which emphasizes that investment in training enhances productivity, the study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study population comprised 9,806 former apprentices who had become business owners in selected markets. A sample size of 384 was determined, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Pearson product–moment correlation coefficient. The findings revealed statistically significant positive relationships between the components of the apprenticeship system and business growth indicators. Mentoring was strongly positively correlated with business development (r = 0.871, p < 0.001), indicating that effective guidance enhances entrepreneurial success. The acquisition of entrepreneurial skills exhibited a strong positive relationship with business sustainability (r = 0.954, p < 0.001), highlighting the importance of skills gained during apprenticeship for long-term operations. Access to start-up capital also had a significant positive correlation with business growth (r = 0.815, p < 0.001), underscoring the critical role of financial support in venture establishment and expansion. The study concludes that the apprenticeship system is associated with business development and economic empowerment among former apprentices in Southeast Nigeria. It recommends that local governments and financial institutions improve access to funding and strengthen mentorship programmes to enhance the effectiveness of the apprenticeship system and promote sustainable business growth.