Evaluating the practical competency of arc welders trained under formal and informal apprenticeship module in the Ketu South Municipal area of Volta Region

Abstract

Apprenticeship is a form of post-secondary training that teaches the skills and competencies necessary to perform tasks to an industry standard. Apprenticeship training provides the opportunity for hands-on learning under the direction of a certified journey person, with the ability to earn while you learn. Technical training can occur at both formal and informal sector. Once the apprentice has completed the required hours and/or modules for the trade, the apprentice can write a certification exam. This study was undertaken to evaluate the practical competency of arc welders trained under formal apprenticeship and informal apprenticeship module in the Ketu South Municipal Area of Volta Region. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative statistical procedure to analyze the data collected through questionnaires and interviewing of respondents. A total of one hundred (100) respondents were sampled for the study using purposive, stratified and quota sampling techniques. The study revealed that the practical competency level of arc welders is going down even though the quality of training is good, respondents affirmed that various strategies must be put in place to improve the quality of training. Also, majority of workers employed by contractors do not have enough training time. The study recommended the need to invest more in technical education by government both in the formal and informal sectors to improve practical competency of apprentice since its emphasis can propel the country’s technological development.