Role of Higher Educational Institutions in Promoting Innovation and Entrepreneurship
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66635/1x4ecf19Keywords:
Higher Education, Entrepreneurial Intention, HEI Ecosystem, Startup Incubation, Innovation CultureAbstract
This study examines the role of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among student entrepreneurs. In the knowledge-driven economy, HEIs are expected to function not only as centres of teaching and research but also as strategic platforms for entrepreneurial capacity-building, startup incubation, and innovation ecosystem development. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, and primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 21 student entrepreneurs associated with the Institution’s Incubation Centre. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including percentages and mean scores. The findings indicate that institutional support plays a significant role in shaping entrepreneurial intention and startup initiation. Incubation ecosystem support received 95.2% positive agreement, while institutional infrastructure received 95.3% positive agreement. Experiential learning opportunities and institutional innovation culture each received 95.2% positive agreement. Peer and role-model influence emerged as the strongest factor, with 100% of respondents agreeing that interaction with successful student entrepreneurs motivated startup initiation. The study concludes that incubation facilities, infrastructure, seed funding, mentorship, academic flexibility, experiential learning, industry exposure, and pro-startup culture are essential for strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship in HEIs. The findings offer practical insights for academic administrators and policymakers to improve institutional startup ecosystems.
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