Role of Illegal Mining Activities on Apprenticeship in a Mining Community in Ghana: Evidence from Master Craftsmen, Tarkwa

Abstract

This study investigated the role of illegal mining activities on apprenticeship systems in mining communities in Ghana, with a focus on Tarkwa. The research explored how these unregulated mining operations disrupted traditional apprenticeship programs facilitated by master craftsmen, who had been instrumental in training young apprentices. A qualitative research approach with an exploratory design was utilized, and data were collected from 10 master craftsmen in Tarkwa through semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis revealed that illegal mining activities significantly affected apprenticeship programs by diverting apprentices toward quick financial gains, resulting in a decline in enrollment in traditional vocational training. The study also identified several motivating factors that drove apprentices toward illegal mining, including economic necessity, family pressures, and peer influence. Moreover, the research highlighted strategies employed by master craftsmen to mitigate the adverse effects of illegal mining, such as providing financial incentives, promoting the long-term benefits of apprenticeships, and incorporating relevant training to align with the needs of the mining industry. The findings underscored the need for policy interventions and community engagement to preserve apprenticeship systems in mining communities, ensuring sustainable skill development despite the challenges posed by illegal mining.