Role of Higher Education Institutions in Developing Entrepreneurial Intention among Female Students

Abstract

This study explores the role of HEIs in providing entrepreneurial experiences and opportunities to female students for developing their entrepreneurial intention. Explanatory sequential design and multi-stage sampling plan used in this study. Total 103 female students of graduating class, studying in the HEC recognized universities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, have participated in Phase- I to complete a survey questionnaire and eight students were selected for a face-to-face interview in Phase-II. The quantitative data (Phase I) led to the qualitative data (Phase II) and the results were drawn through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings show that Entrepreneurship is a new concept in HEIs due to lack of awareness and orientation. HEIs are providing experiences and opportunities (seminars/workshops/career fairs) to students but fail to provide entrepreneurial exposure, which could help female students in developing entrepreneurial intentions.