APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM AND PERFORMANCE OF ENTREPRENEURS IN SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES IN ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of internship programs on customer satisfaction, product development, and operational efficiency within small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Anambra State, motivated by the lack of adequate apprenticeship systems. Anchored in Human Capital Theory and Resource-Based View Theory, the research targeted a population of 525 staff from selected SMEs, with a sample size of 222 determined using Krejcie and Morgan's formula. Data was collected through a validated and reliable questionnaire, analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, and hypotheses were tested at a 5% significance level. The findings revealed that internship programs significantly and positively influenced customer satisfaction and product development, while mentorship programs showed a strong relationship with operational efficiency. It was concluded that the apprenticeship system significantly impacts SME performance in Anambra State. Consequently, the study recommends that SMEs actively engage in apprenticeship programs to enhance business performance, promote a culture of mentorship and knowledge sharing through networking events and workshops, and collaborate with government agencies, industry associations, and educational institutions to foster a supportive ecosystem for apprenticeship programs in Anambra State.