DEVELOPING ENTREPRENEURIAL COMPETENCE IN FUTURE TEACHERS: SMART COACH MODEL EXPERIENCE

This article explores the practical implementation of the Smart Coachmodel as an effective strategy for fostering entrepreneurial competence among future primary school teachers in Kazakhstan. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, and observational data, the study demonstrates how this innovative extracurricular initiative cultivates core entrepreneurial skills such as leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Positioned within the context of global educational trends, the research addresses the disconnect between policy-driven expectations and the realities of teacher training in higher education. The article also investigates the broader pedagogical implications of integrating entrepreneurial education, financial literacy, and business-innovation strategies into teacher preparation curricula. Special attention is given to the practical application of student-led projects, which offer scalable and sustainable pathways for reform in profession-oriented institutions. A key outcome of this initiative is the establishment of the Smart Coachclub at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University.