A critical analysis of the Portuguese Framework for entrepreneurship education considering the EntreComp competence framework

Abstract This paper critically examines the recently approved Portuguese Framework for Entrepreneurship Education (REE), in 2024, a key policy document aimed at implementing entrepreneurship education (EE) in compulsory public education. It addresses the historical context and current challenges of EE in Portugal, where participation in EE programmes has been limited. The REE is part of a broader initiative under the Citizenship Education subject, aiming to develop entrepreneurial skills among students as they progress through the education system. This article explores the evolution of EE frameworks, particularly focusing on the European Entrepreneurship Competence Framework (EntreComp), which has been widely adopted across Europe. It investigates how these frameworks, including the REE, contribute to the development of entrepreneurial competencies—skills that go beyond business creation to foster creativity, resilience, and problem-solving. The paper also highlights the benefits and challenges of implementing EE, including the need for tailored teaching materials and the importance of teacher support. By presenting Portugal’s recent efforts to integrate EE into its curriculum, this paper contributes to the international discourse on effective strategies for fostering entrepreneurial skills. It emphasises the role of such frameworks in overcoming barriers to EE, ensuring inclusivity, and addressing the evolving needs of global education systems in the face of rapid socio-economic changes.