The influence of the university entrepreneurial ecosystem on the entrepreneurial intentions of students in Vietnam

Purpose The paper aims to explore the intricate relationship between the university entrepreneurial ecosystem and the entrepreneurial intentions of students in Vietnam. Design/methodology/approach By using the structural equation modelling approach, the study examines how various components of the ecosystem – including entrepreneurship policy, access to culture and entrepreneurial education – influence students’ motivation to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Findings The findings reveal that a robust entrepreneurship education significantly enhances students’ entrepreneurial intention, while the theory of planned behaviour construct is insignificant for business administration majors. Entrepreneurship education mediates the relationship between entrepreneurial policy and intention, with notable differences between public and private university systems. Originality/value This research provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers seeking to create a more conducive environment for fostering entrepreneurship among university students in Vietnam.