The Influence of Demographic Factors on Graduates' Entrepreneurial Entry Decisions: A Case of Moshi Cooperative University (MOCU)

This study investigates how demographic factors affect the entrepreneurial entry choices of university graduates in Tanzania. Through logistic regression analysis of 102 respondent sample size, the results indicate that gender has a significant impact on entrepreneurial intentions, with males being 27 times more likely than females to express such ambitions (Wald = 10.394, p < 0.05, Exp(B) = 27.394). Furthermore, age is an essential factor, as 60.2% of participants aged 23–30 and 39.3% of those aged 18–22 reveal that graduates in their late 20s to mid-30s have a higher inclination toward entrepreneurship, likely due to having greater financial responsibilities and more work experience. Additional analysis shows that marital status serves as another key predictor, with married graduates being 28 times more likely to pursue entrepreneurship than their single peers (Wald = 10.620, p < 0.05, Exp(B) = 28.326). Other demographic factors, including household size and ethnic background, also play a role in entrepreneurial decisions; for example, graduates from larger households are 4.48 times more likely to consider entrepreneurship. These results highlight the necessity for specific policies and support systems that address the distinctive challenges posed by demographic variables, thereby increasing entrepreneurial participation among graduates and contributing to overall economic growth.