THE IMPACT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUBJECT ON CAREER ASPIRANTS AMONG GRADE 12 ACCOUNTANCY BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT LEARNERS

Abstract

This study examines the impact of the Entrepreneurship subject on the career aspirations of Grade 12 Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) learners. It seeks to determine whether entrepreneurship education nurtures entrepreneurial ambitions or guides students toward alternative career paths by providing them with essential transferable skills. The research analyzes how exposure to entrepreneurial concepts shapes students' career choices, business mindset, and decision-making abilities. A survey was conducted among Grade 12 ABM students to evaluate their perceptions of the Entrepreneurship subject’s influence on their career aspirations. Utilizing a Likert scale, the survey measured the degree of student agreement with various statements regarding how entrepreneurship education shapes their career goals and professional trajectories. This study explored whether the Entrepreneurship subject motivates students to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or influences their career choices in other fields. A survey conducted among Grade 12 ABM students gathered data on their perceptions and career intentions. The findings highlighted the subject’s crucial role in developing essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. Furthermore, exposure to entrepreneurship education positively impacted students' interest in pursuing careers in entrepreneurship. Here are some practical recommendations for educators and policymakers to enhance the effectiveness of the Entrepreneurship subject based on the study’s findings:

For Educators:

Integrate Experiential Learning – Incorporate hands-on activities such as business simulations, case studies, and real-world entrepreneurship projects to deepen students' understanding of business concepts.

Encourage Business Plan Development – Require students to create and present business plans, allowing them to apply entrepreneurial theories in a structured manner.

Invite Industry Experts & Entrepreneurs – Organize guest lectures, mentorship programs, and networking events to expose students to real-life entrepreneurial experiences.

Promote Innovation & Creativity – Foster an environment where students can brainstorm business ideas, develop prototypes, and pitch their innovations.

Enhance Financial Literacy – Strengthen lessons on budgeting, investment, and financial management to equip students with the necessary skills for running a business.

Encourage Collaboration & Teamwork – Implement group projects that simulate real-world business dynamics, helping students develop leadership and teamwork skills.

For Policymakers:

Revise & Update Curriculum – Ensure that entrepreneurship education remains relevant by incorporating emerging business trends, digital marketing, and e-commerce strategies.

Allocate Funding for Student Startups – Establish financial support programs or grants for students interested in launching small businesses.

Develop School-Based Incubators – Create entrepreneurship hubs within schools to provide mentorship, resources, and support for student-led business ventures.

Strengthen Industry Partnerships – Collaborate with businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs to provide students with internship and apprenticeship opportunities.

Implement Outcome-Based Assessments – Shift from traditional grading to competency-based assessments that measure students' entrepreneurial skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Promote Entrepreneurship Competitions – Support national and local business pitch competitions to inspire students to innovate and develop business solutions.

By implementing these recommendations, educators and policymakers can enhance the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education, fostering a generation of students who are well-prepared for entrepreneurial and professional success.