Entrepreneurship Attributes Among Students In Higher Learning Institutions In Dodoma, Tanzania

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the Entrepreneurship attributes among students in higher

learning institutions in Dodoma in Tanzania. The study was conducted in two higher

learning institutions namely Institute of Rural Development and Planning (IRDP)

and College of Business Education (CBE) in Dodoma Municipality, involving a total

number of 94 participants composed of 100 students (female and male), and 4

lecturers (1 female and 3 male). The study employed the Human Capital Theory

developed by Becker (1994) to guide the study. The study employed a mixed method

approach in data collection. The data were collected using a questionnaire, interview,

and documentary review from two higher learning institutions found in Dodoma

City. The findings were analyzed both quantitatively using descriptive analysis and

inferential analysis through Chi Square Analysis, and qualitatively using thematic

analysis.

The findings revealed that they are main methods used were such as classroom

lectures and group discussions. However, these methods were seen insufficient in

promoting entrepreneurship attributes to students. Secondly, the findings revealed

different learning contents were taught to students in higher learning institutions.

These include marketing skills, innovation/ creativity, business startup and creation,

and risk management. The findings further revealed the assessment methods used by

instructors to students and the main assessment methods revealed were examinations

and oral presentations. Thirdly, the findings revealed that the main strategies used by

Higher Learning Institutions in promoting entrepreneurship to students is by

providing entrepreneurship short courses, employing skilled and competent

instructors and establishing entrepreneurship centers. Also, inadequate funds,

insufficient resources and facilities and entrepreneurship being taught theoretically,

rather than practically were challenges facing HLIs. The study concluded that,

entrepreneurship attributes are promoted to students in higher learning institutions.

However, several challenges have been hindering effective provision of quality

entrepreneurship attributes to students in HLIs. It is hereby recommended that the

government through the Ministry of Education and Vocational training should

allocate sufficient funds and resources in promoting entrepreneurship attributes to

students in high learning institutions.