A recent study conducted by Romindo M Pasaribu from the Faculty of Economics and Business at HKBP Nommensen University and Politeknik Wilmar Business Indonesia in Medan, Indonesia, sheds light on the factors influencing students’ entrepreneurial intentions in the region. Published in the Asian Journal of Management, Entrepreneurship and Social Science, the research highlights the critical role of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth, increasing per capita income, and alleviating poverty.
The Indonesian government has set an ambitious goal through Presidential Regulation No. 2 of 2022 to cultivate one million new entrepreneurs. This study delves into how various beliefs and attitudes shape the entrepreneurial aspirations of students across five universities in Medan. The findings reveal that behavioral beliefs significantly influence personal attitudes toward entrepreneurship, while normative beliefs impact subjective norms. Furthermore, control beliefs affect perceived behavior, which in turn influences entrepreneurial intentions.
Pasaribu emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics: “Behavioral beliefs have a significant effect on personal attitudes, while social support and current behavior also play crucial roles in shaping entrepreneurial intentions.” This insight is particularly valuable for policymakers and educational institutions aiming to foster a more entrepreneurial culture among students.
The implications of this research extend to various sectors, particularly education and business development. Universities can leverage these findings to design programs that enhance students’ entrepreneurial skills and mindset, ultimately contributing to a more robust economy. Additionally, businesses and investors looking to tap into the emerging entrepreneurial landscape in Indonesia may find opportunities to collaborate with educational institutions, providing mentorship and resources to aspiring young entrepreneurs.
By addressing the factors that influence entrepreneurial intentions, stakeholders can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable environment that supports the entrepreneurial spirit among university students in Medan. This research not only enhances our understanding of the theory of planned behavior but also serves as a foundation for developing effective strategies to nurture entrepreneurship in Indonesia’s youth.
