Educate to Empower: Building Women's Entrepreneurial Skills for Sustainable Job Creation

Abstract

Purpose: This study explores the role of university-led entrepreneurship education in enhancing women’s confidence to launch businesses and their potential for contributing to job creation. It also investigates the gender disparities that affect access and participation in entrepreneurship programs within Indian universities.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative approach was adopted, using structured survey data collected from 804 university students across India. Statistical tools including correlation analysis, linear regression, and chi-square tests were employed to examine the relationships between institutional support, gender-based accessibility, and outcomes in entrepreneurship education.

Findings: The results show a strong positive correlation between university encouragement and women's entrepreneurial confidence (r = 0.730, p < 0.001), with institutional support explaining 64% of the variance in job creation outcomes (R² = 0.640). However, a significant gender disparity was identified in participation rates (χ² = 7.936, p = 0.019), indicating structural barriers that continue to hinder equal access.

Practical Implications: The findings highlight the critical need for gender-inclusive entrepreneurship education policies. Institutions must implement targeted strategies, such as mentorship, flexible course formats, and female-focused entrepreneurial programs, to support and empower women in higher education settings.

Originality/Value: This study contributes new insights into how gender dynamics influence the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education in India. It emphasizes the transformative potential of inclusive university initiatives in closing gender gaps and promoting sustainable job creation.