An analysis of entrepreneurial intentions of future Chartered Accountants in South Africa

Date
2020
Authors
Mshunqane, Xhanti
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the entrepreneurial intent of future Chartered Accountants (CAs) in South Africa. It was inspired by the renewed interest for entrepreneurship to become a possible tool to rectify the poor macroeconomic conditions in the country. A questionnaire was sent to fourth year HDipAcc students and to trainees on the CA training programmes in various accounting firms. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify the factors that influence entrepreneurial intentions. Six key factors were found to influence the entrepreneurial intent of future CA’s, namely, family support, perceived desirability and feasibility, locus of control, career mentors, role model and community support. Two tailed t -Tests were also conducted to determine whether there were significant differences for each factor in terms of the gender, level of study (4th year / Trainees in Practice) and place of practice (TIPP/TOPP) of the respondents. The t -Tests revealed significant differences for perceived desirability and feasibility, locus of control and the role model and community support factors. Furthermore, it was also found that family support is a key factor in determining the desirability and feasibility of starting a new venture. The study highlights the factors that drive entrepreneurial intention in order to encourage entrepreneurship as a career path among Chartered Accountants. Finally, the study concludes by making suggestions on how to foster entrepreneurial intent
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A research report submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Commerce, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, School of Accountancy, 2020
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