Beyond entrepreneurship education: business incubation and entrepreneurial capabilities

Abstract

Purpose As a way of dealing with Nigeria’s macroeconomic challenge of unemployment and its concomitant socio-economic problems, the federal government, in 2006, made entrepreneurship study a compulsory course for all higher education students irrespective of their area of specialization. However, studies have shown that the programme is yet to achieve its goals as many Nigerian graduates still remain unemployed long after graduation. Using Sen’s capability approach, this paper aims to investigate business incubation as an effective tool for enhancing entrepreneurial capabilities beyond entrepreneurship education. Design/methodology/approach This study has engaged both quantitative (survey questionnaire) and qualitative methodologies (semi-structured interview). Findings The result shows that through business incubation, budding entrepreneurs have increased access to infrastructures and resources necessary for entrepreneurial success, thereby enhancing their real opportunities (capabilities) for success. Practical implications For greater effectiveness, business incubation should be integrated into the current entrepreneurship education programme in Nigeria. Originality/value This study is a debut of research endeavours which theoretically assess entrepreneurship programmes via the capability approach lens. It has developed a conceptual model for assessing business incubation using the capability approach.