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Entrepreneurial attitudes among university students: the role of institutional environments and cultural norms

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Abstract

This study draws on institutional theory to examine the role of institutional environments in the formation of entrepreneurial venture creation decision among university students. The aim was to determine how the institutional context influences individual entrepreneurial capability, and mindset for entrepreneurial career. We adopted an exploratory qualitative approach, using a combination of purposive and snowballing sampling techniques. A total of 30 interviews were conducted among university students, and stakeholders across three geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The findings reveal that prevailing societal values and norms have significant influence on entrepreneurial mindset among the youth. The majority of student respondents ascribe high social values and preferences for career opportunities in the formal sectors, rather than an active interest in launching new ventures. In addition, respondents report high uncertainty avoidance, concern for class structure, job security and ascription orientation, all of which impact the cognitive frame and mindset for entrepreneurial career.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Business and Law, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK

    Adekunle I. Ogunsade, Demola Obembe, Kassa Woldesenbet & Seun Kolade

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  1. Adekunle I. Ogunsade
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  2. Demola Obembe
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  3. Kassa Woldesenbet
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Correspondence to Adekunle I. Ogunsade.

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Table 4 Interview notes/ protocol
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Ogunsade, A.I., Obembe, D., Woldesenbet, K. et al. Entrepreneurial attitudes among university students: the role of institutional environments and cultural norms. Entrep Educ 4, 169–190 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41959-021-00050-y

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