ASSESSING THE ENTERPRENUERIAL INCLINATION AMONG CLOTHING AND TEXTILE UNDERGRADUATE OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN SOUTHWESTERN, NIGERIA

Entrepreneurship is a vital driver of economic growth and innovation, particularly in creative industries such as clothing and textiles. This study assesses the entrepreneurial inclination of clothing and textile undergraduates in tertiary institutions in Southwestern Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a sample size of 300 students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and statistical analyses including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression analysis were performed to evaluate the relationships between entrepreneurial inclination and various factors. The results indicated that 70% of respondents demonstrated a high level of entrepreneurial inclination, with no significant differences based on gender (p > 0.05). Educational curriculum and institutional support were significant positive predictors of entrepreneurial inclination (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). External factors such as financial challenges and access to funding were also found to significantly influence entrepreneurial intentions (p < 0.01). Additionally, students with prior entrepreneurial experience displayed a higher inclination toward entrepreneurship than those without experience (p < 0.05). The findings highlight the importance of enhancing entrepreneurial education, providing institutional support, and addressing financial barriers to foster entrepreneurial intentions. The study recommends that educational institutions and policymakers strengthen entrepreneurship training, mentorship programs, and funding access to better prepare students for entrepreneurial careers. Keywords: Entrepreneurial Inclination, Clothing and Textile, Tertiary Institutions, Southwestern Nigeria, Entrepreneurship Education, Institutional Support DOI: 10.7176/ADS/112-01 Publication date: April 30th 2025