GRADUATE ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTIONS IN NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA: THE ROLE OF GENDER, SCHOOL TYPE, AND PRIOR SELF-EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE

This study examines the influence of gender, school type, and entrepreneurship experience on Graduate Entrepreneurial Intention scores among National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) graduate members in North-Central Nigeria. A survey research design with a quantitative approach was employed, utilizing primary data collected through a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. The sample consisted of 536 NYSC members serving in Niger, Nasarawa, and Kwara States, drawn from a total population of 5,635 Batch ‘B’ 2024 Stream II members. The study determined the sample size using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) sample estimation table and employed stratified and systematic random sampling techniques for selection. A total of 453 completed questionnaires were retrieved and analysed using a t-test. The findings indicate no significant difference in Graduate Entrepreneurial Intention scores between male and female corps members. Similarly, no significant difference was found between corps members with prior self-employment experience and those without such experience. However, a significant difference was observed in Graduate Entrepreneurial Intention scores between university and polytechnic graduates. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening equitable entrepreneurial opportunities through an enhanced Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) initiative by the NYSC to ensure equal support for both male and female graduates. Additionally, universities and polytechnics should integrate comprehensive entrepreneurship programs into their curricula to develop entrepreneurial competencies early. Furthermore, the government, entrepreneurship agencies, and private sector stakeholders should collaborate to offer targeted training, funding, and mentorship tailored to the diverse needs of graduates from different educational backgrounds, fostering inclusive participation in entrepreneurship.