Veritatis Gaudium: Multidisciplinary Journal of Postgraduate Studies

The study was concerned with the measurement of the effect of Apprenticeship and Workshops, as training modes, on the performance of small mining businesses in Nasarawa State through an increase in owner-manager competence. To achieve this, a causal design was adopted by the study, premised on the Human Capital Theory and relying on quantitative methods, including the collection of survey data from a sample of 298 small mining operators across the state. In analysing the collected data, as well as testing model hypotheses, the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) approach to path analysis was employed. Findings indicated that while Apprenticeship was positive and statistically significant in determining Performance, the effect exerted by Workshops was not statistically different from zero. Based on this, it was therefore recommended that government and other stakeholders prioritise collaboration with business owners in enhancing apprenticeship programmes where participants receive relevant, hands-on training that meets the specific needs of the mining sector. Furthermore, it is crucial that workshops, as a training mode, be reassessed in terms of content and delivery methods, based on participant feedback to ensure relevance to the challenges faced by small mining enterprises. Addressing identified shortcomings and integrating practical training opportunities can enhance the effectiveness of these workshops by allowing participants to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

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