The recently concluded 111th International Labour Conference (ILC) of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva, Switzerland resulted in the adoption of a recommendation on quality apprenticeships as a new labor standard.
This recommendation aims to support continuous skill development for
individuals of all ages in rapidly changing job markets. It provides a clear
definition of apprenticeships and sets standards for quality apprenticeships,
including the rights and protection of apprentices.
During a conversation with Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria
Labour Congress (NLC), various topics such as the culture of apprenticeship,
job security, and unfair employment practices were discussed. Ajaero criticized
the Federal Government, specifically the Ministry of Labour and Employment, for
the increase in casualization and outsourcing of workers, as well as other
forms of unfair employment practices.
He highlighted the longstanding tradition of apprenticeship, particularly in the South East region of Nigeria, where apprentices work in workshops and similar trades. Traditionally, the owners of these businesses take care of the apprentices by providing them with stipends during their training and settling them after completion.
However, Ajaero noted that in
recent times, apprentices have been left unsettled after serving for several
years, causing problems for their parents.
He explained that the ILO's idea of paying stipends during
apprenticeships and unionizing apprentices was initially supported by
employers. However, employers changed their stance when it came to unionizing
apprentices. Ajaero emphasized that apprentices have the right to belong to a
union and that the details of how unionization would work should be discussed
through social dialogue.
Ajaero also addressed the issue of job protection, stating that there is
a lack of jobs, making it challenging to protect them. He emphasized the need
for countries like Nigeria to address the number of people in the unemployment
and underemployment categories. Many people in Nigeria are underemployed, and
without social security or safety nets, the problem is further exacerbated.
Regarding casualization and outsourcing, Ajaero criticized the Ministry of Labour in Nigeria for attempting to legalize these practices by encouraging unions to sign agreements with employers. He argued that workers who are casualized or outsourced should be allowed to join unions, and there should be limits on how long they can remain in such employment arrangements.
Ajaero
called for a new national policy to address these issues and ensure that
individuals are not outsourced or remain as casual workers indefinitely.