Factors influencing entrepreneurial intention : a case of students in a South African University

Abstract

Entrepreneurship has been globally adopted as a strategic approach in facilitating economic participation among youth. On an individual level, entrepreneurship affords young people their independence and autonomy to pursue their dreams. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that motivate youth entrepreneurial intention amongst students in a South African university. Using a cross-sectional design with a quantitative structured questionnaire, a sample of 247 students was interviewed and the collected data was analysed with Principal component analysis. The results showed four major factors that influence students' entrepreneurial intentions. These factors include the quest to create sustainable employment, the need for independence and self-development, the quest to use one's knowledge and search for financial security and finally to take risks and challenge oneself.