CULTIVATING FUTURES: NURTURING ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTIONS IN NIGERIAN TERTIARY STUDENTS VIA ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION

Abstract

This paper explores the intricate relationship between entrepreneurship education and the entrepreneurial intentions of tertiary students in Nigeria. The study, encompassing 381 participants from diverse educational institutions, including a university, a polytechnic, a college of education, and a satellite campus of a university, investigates the perceptions, attitudes, and intentions of students regarding entrepreneurship education. The findings underscore a prevalent positive attitude among the students towards entrepreneurship education, coupled with a notable recognition of the necessity for increased practical examples within the classroom setting. The survey further unveils a positive behavioral component of entrepreneurial attitude among the students, coupled with a significant proportion expressing a clear intention to initiate their own ventures post-graduation. This paper contends that the incorporation of entrepreneurship education is pivotal in shaping not only the mindset of the students but also fostering a proactive approach towards entrepreneurial endeavors. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of practical applications within the educational framework to enhance the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education. In conclusion, the research posits that entrepreneurship education holds a critical role in catalyzing economic growth, facilitating job creation, and augmenting overall wealth in the context of Nigeria. The paper advocates for the integration of entrepreneurship education into the curricula of tertiary institutions across the country, emphasizing its potential to contribute to a more robust and dynamic economy. Recognizing the significant impact of entrepreneurial intentions on future economic landscapes, this study underscores the urgency for educational institutions to embrace and prioritize entrepreneurship education.