Beyond the Degree: Exploring Skills and Entrepreneurial Drive of Gujarat’s Business Graduates

Abstract

India’s evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem underscores the growing importance of entrepreneurial skills among business graduates. This study assesses the entrepreneurial skills and intentions of 692 business graduates in Gujarat, with a focus on the influence of demographic variables and entrepreneurship education. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected via structured questionnaires and analysed using SPSS. Results indicate a significant association between entrepreneurial intention and factors such as gender, annual family income, and exposure to entrepreneurship education. Conversely, no significant relationship was found between entrepreneurial intention and academic year or family size. Notably, 70% of respondents had received entrepreneurship education, and 52% expressed a clear intent to pursue entrepreneurship. Skill self-assessments revealed strengths in opportunity recognition and risk management, but moderate proficiency in leadership and strategic decision-making. The findings highlight the critical role of targeted educational interventions, inclusive policies, and supportive ecosystems in fostering entrepreneurial capabilities and intent among business graduates.