The adequacy of entrepreneurship education in Gauteng TVET colleges in preparing students for entrepreneurship

Abstract

The research evaluates the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education in Gauteng TVET colleges, aiming to prepare students for entrepreneurial success. Driven by the rising youth unemployment crisis in South Africa and the limited success of youth-led businesses, the study addresses the gaps between theory and practice in business programmes. It assesses the curriculum's structure, identifies challenges for instructors, and examines factors influencing students’ entrepreneurial readiness aspirations. A qualitative methodology involved semi-structured interviews with 13 participants, including students and lecturers from Gauteng TVET colleges. Findings reveal that the curriculum is overly theoretical, limiting practical exposure and students' readiness for entrepreneurship. Lecturers noted systemic challenges, such as inadequate professional development. Students reported external barriers, including a lack of mentorship, that impact their entrepreneurial aspirations. The study contributes practically by advocating reforms to include experiential learning, such as internships and capstone projects, alongside institutional support structures like mentorship programmes and entrepreneurship centres. Theoretically, it underscores the importance of integrating human capital theory into curriculum design to bridge the gap between knowledge acquisition and practical application. The research emphasises a balanced approach to entrepreneurship education, merging theory with hands-on experiences and support systems, allowing TVET colleges to empower students in entrepreneurial ventures and tackle South Africa's socio-economic challenges effectively.