Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, the representative for Anaocha II Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly has given his reasons for the introduction of Apprenticeship bill in Anambra Assembly.
According to him, the bill is aimed at reviving Igbo apprenticeship practices, known as Igba boyi, to tackle rising crime rates and unemployment in the state.
During a meeting with members of Catch Them Young Community Initiative (CATYCOI) at the Anambra State Assembly, Okechukwu emphasised the importance of the bill in ensuring fair treatment of apprentices, setting standards for training, and providing mechanisms for dispute resolution through a commission.
He highlighted the benefits of Igba boyi, including mentorship opportunities and the potential for apprentices to receive a diploma certificate upon completion of their training.
Okechukwu also disclosed his other legislative efforts, such as the Anambra State mental health bill and E-Governance bill, focused on addressing mental health issues and improving government transparency and accountability.
Members of Catch Them Young Community Initiative (CATYCOI), in the meeting on advocacy campaign, praised the lawmaker for his dedication to community development and pledged to support government policies through public awareness campaigns.
Executive Director of CATYCOI, Comrade Nonso Orakwe, recalled that his civil society group had trained and empowered 30 youths across the 30 Constituencies in Anambra State on policy making.
He assured their readiness in contributing favourably in drafting, monitoring and implementing government policies through mass sensitisations of people.
Contributing, the Programmes Manager for CATYCOI, Israel Orji, maintained that the practical knowledge and experience the youth have gathered from the training and advocacy visit would empower them to engage others to support government policies.
Other participants in the advocacy programme shared their optimism that the Igba boyi bill would help reduce unemployment, poverty, and crime in Anambra State.
