Entrepreneurial intentions through self-efficacy and education: A moderated model

This study investigates the role of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) in shaping the entrepreneurial intention (EI) of management students in Kashmir. It further explores whether entrepreneurship education (EE) influences this relationship. Given the growing interest in promoting entrepreneurship among youth, particularly in regions with limited employment opportunities, this research aims to provide valuable insights into the factors that encourage students to consider entrepreneurship a viable career path. A cross-sectional survey was used to gather data from 390 management students in various higher education institutions (HEIs) across Kashmir. The collected responses were analysed via partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), a statistical technique well-suited for studying complex relationships among variables, especially in behavioural research. The results reveal that ESE significantly and positively impacts students’ EI, indicating that students who believe in their entrepreneurial capabilities are more likely to express intentions to start a business. Furthermore, EE not only has a direct positive influence on EI but also plays a significant moderating role in the relationship between ESE and EI, strengthening the effect of ESE when students have been exposed to entrepreneurship-related educational courses. The overall model accounts for 20.7% of the variance in EI, suggesting a meaningful contribution of the examined variables. These findings highlight the crucial role of EE in developing both the confidence and competence needed for entrepreneurial action. In the context of Kashmir, where traditional job markets may not meet the demands of a growing educated population, EE can be a powerful tool to foster entrepreneurial mindsets and encourage self-employment. This study has meaningful implications for educators, academic institutions, and policymakers aiming to cultivate entrepreneurship in developing and underserved regions with socioeconomic constraints.