Strategies for Cultivating Entrepreneurial Culture to Prepare Undergraduates for Self-Employment in Northern Tanzania

Edgar Haule, Elizabeth Nduku & Paschal Wambiya
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), Nairobi- Kenya
Email: edgarshona@yahoo.com

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine effective strategies for cultivating entrepreneurial culture to prepare undergraduates for self-employment in Northern Tanzania. The Study was conducted to answer a research question: What are the effective strategies for cultivating entrepreneurial culture to prepare undergraduates for self-employment? Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior by Azjen (1991), this study employed a convergent parallel design under a mixed-method research approach. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques under probability sampling were used in selecting 310 undergraduates while purposive and snowball sampling techniques under non-probability sampling were used to select 27 university managers, 6 lecturers and 36 alumni, making a total sample size of 379 respondents. The instrument used in the study was validated by experts, and a pilot test was conducted outside the study area. Data was collected using questionnaire, interview guide, and document analysis guide. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Ethical considerations were observed in the study. Support mechanisms and practical teaching methods and experiential learning were seen as crucial in preparing undergraduates with skills necessary for self-employment. The study concluded that, there is a need of collaboration between students, parents, learning institutions, and stakeholders to work together towards solving unemployment challenges facing graduates. The study recommended the government, universities, and all education and development stakeholders to provide adequate support to develop entrepreneurial skills for undergraduates.