Assessment of Entrepreneurship Education and Graduate Entrepreneurial Intentions among TVET Institutions in Southwest Nigeria.

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between entrepreneurship education (EE) and graduate entrepreneurial intentions (GEI) among Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Southwest Nigeria. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 450 final-year students from selected TVET institutions. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses.
Results reveal a moderately positive correlation (r = 0.45, p < 0.01) between EE and GEI. Regression analysis indicates that EE significantly predicts GEI (β = 0.38, p < 0.01), explaining approximately 14.4% (R² = 0.144) of the variance in GEI. Specifically, components of EE such as business plan development and entrepreneurial mindset training significantly contributed to higher GEI scores. However, access to funding and mentorship emerged as crucial mediating factors, with students reporting a lower propensity to start businesses despite receiving EE due to perceived limitations in these areas.
The study concludes that while EE positively influences GEI, its effectiveness is constrained by systemic challenges within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The findings emphasize the need for TVET institutions to strengthen their EE programs by integrating practical, hands-on experiences, fostering stronger industry linkages, and actively facilitating access to funding and mentorship opportunities to effectively cultivate graduate entrepreneurial intentions and contribute to economic development in Southwest Nigeria. Further research should explore the qualitative experiences of graduates and the long-term impact of EE on actual entrepreneurial ventures