Knowledge Acquisition System of Traditional Crafts in Bida and Gusau Towns in Northern Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated knowledge acquisition and transfer system among traditional crafts in Bida and Gusau towns in Northern Nigeria. Five research questions guided the study and include variables such as types of crafts practiced, sources of knowledge and skills; people involved sustainability and challenges to traditional crafts in the two towns. Case study was used with population of all traditional craftsmen in Bida and Gusau (Niger and Zamfara States) respectively. A sample size of 90 craftsmen was drawn through stratified random sampling. Descriptive statistics involving frequency counts and percentages were used to analyze the collected data. Results showed that embroidery and blacksmithing were the major crafts practiced; knowledge and skills were obtained through inheritance/initiation and that the unemployed were the major craftsmen. Other findings include ‘no alternative’ jobs as a factor that sustain traditional crafts and that limited capital was the major obstacle to traditional crafts in the two towns. The study recommended amongst others the inclusion of limitless type of crafts to various skills through formal education, vocational training, apprenticeship, etc.

Keywords: Traditional crafts, Apprenticeship, Knowledge, Skills, Nigeria