Determining the Nexus between Entrepreneurship Education and Self-efficacy on Students’ Entrepreneurship Interest in South Africa

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to explore the intricate relationship between entrepreneurship education, self- efficacy, and undergraduate students’ interest in entrepreneurship. With youth unemployment escalating in South Africa, entrepreneurship education emerges as a potential remedy to this economic challenge. Recognized as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation, entrepreneurship demands fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and skill set among higher education students, accompanied by the cultivation of self-efficacy to ignite entrepreneurial interest. Given the pivotal role of entrepreneurship interest in motivating and facilitating post-graduation business start-ups, understanding this dynamic is crucial. However, scant attention has been paid to investigating the nexus between entrepreneurship education, self-efficacy, and students’ entrepreneurship interests. Methodology: This study adopts an Integrative Literature Review (ILR) approach and regulatory focus theory to synthesise existing research and insights on this topic. Result: The study found that students have two motivational orientations; promotion and prevention orientations. Promotion-focused individuals tend to be more proactive and risk-tolerant, thus exhibiting higher levels of self-efficacy in entrepreneurial endeavours. Conversely, prevention-focused individuals may prioritize security and stability, potentially leading to lower self-efficacy in entrepreneurial contexts. Recognizing these differences in regulatory orientation can inform the design of tailored interventions to enhance self-efficacy among students with diverse motivational profiles. Originality: By delving into diverse perspectives and theoretical frameworks, this review shed light on the multifaceted interactions shaping students’ entrepreneurial aspirations within the South African context. Through an integrated approach, this study aims to offer fresh insights and recommendations for educators, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to nurture entrepreneurship potential among South African youth.