ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION AND ENTREPRENEURIAL ASPIRATIONS OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN CAMEROON: THE PLANNED BEHAVIOUR PERSPECTIVE

This study examines the link between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention among university students in Cameroon, drawing on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). The TPB suggests that entrepreneurial actions originate from entrepreneurial motivations, which are shaped by attitudes towards the behaviour, societal expectations, and perceived capacity to enact the behaviour. To test this, data was collected from 386 students at the University of Bamenda via an online survey and analysed using SPSS 27 and Smart PLS 4. The results show that entrepreneurship education significantly boosts entrepreneurial intentions. Attitude towards behaviour and subjective norms mediate this relationship, while perceived behavioural control does not. These findings underscore the importance of fostering a positive entrepreneurial attitude and supportive social norms alongside formal education. Findings from this investigation hold significance for policymakers and educational professionals seeking to strengthen entrepreneurship education programmes. By improving entrepreneurship education, they can better equip students for entrepreneurial ventures, thereby addressing youth unemployment and contributing to economic development in Cameroon. The study highlights the crucial role of comprehensive entrepreneurship education in shaping the future of young graduates.