The Impact of Entrepreneurial Passion on Entrepreneurial Intention of Tunisian Female Students: The Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Self-efficacy

This study investigates the impact of Entrepreneurial Passion (EP) on Entrepreneurial Intention (EI), exploring the mediating role of Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE), based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour ( Ajzen, 1991 ) and Social Cognitive Theory ( Bandura, 1986 – 2012 ). Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 100 Tunisian female students and analysed through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The results reveal a significant positive direct effect of EP on EI, as well as an indirect effect mediated by ESE. Control variables indicate that students who took entrepreneurship courses exhibited stronger EIs, highlighting the interplay between psychological factors and education. This research contributes to the literature by clarifying how entrepreneurship education and psychological factors (passion, self-efficacy) shape EI among women in an emerging economy. It also offers practical insights for policymakers and educators, advocating for the integration of entrepreneurship training across all academic disciplines to empower future female entrepreneurs.