Designing a pathway for higher education institutions to develop women entrepreneurs in the current business landscape

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to highlight the role of entrepreneurial education, artificial intelligence (AI) in education, and internal locus of control in developing entrepreneurial intentions among future women entrepreneurs. To confirm the indirect paths, the mediating role of entrepreneurial competencies was assessed between the variables mentioned. Design/methodology/approach Questionnaires were distributed via Google Forms to female students enrolled in business education programs at higher education institutions in Pakistan. A total of 255 surveys were included in the final data analysis. Findings Our results showed a significant association among variables, suggesting possible directional relationships; however, the cross-sectional nature of the data limits causal interpretation. The findings revealed that entrepreneurial education, AI in education, and internal locus of control are directly and significantly associated with entrepreneurial competencies. Similarly, the relationships between entrepreneurial education, AI in education, and internal locus of control with entrepreneurial intention are mediated by entrepreneurial competencies. Practical implications By identifying the drivers of entrepreneurial intentions, this research contributes to policies that increase female participation in entrepreneurship, which is critical for economic growth and sustainable development in developing countries. Originality/value This study emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship, particularly female entrepreneurship. In the current complex and uncertain business environment, this study encourages policy-makers, government officials, university authorities, and faculty to realign their focus on developing entrepreneurial intentions, thereby developing future female entrepreneurs specifically and entrepreneurs in general.