Exploring the Entrepreneurial Capability of Nigerian Universities for Future Roles: Study of Nigerian Universities

Abstract

In an era where universities are expected to play a key role in driving innovation and economic growth, this study focuses on the entrepreneurial capabilities of academics and academic departments at a foremost university in the Southwestern part of Nigeria. By surveying 298 faculty members from 79 departments, the research sheds light on the level of entrepreneurial engagement and the support system for entrepreneurship within the university. The findings reveal that there are limited entrepreneurial activities among academics and departments, primarily due to the lack of entrepreneurial skills among academics, and perceived inadequacies in university support systems and infrastructure. Individual and institutional barriers further hinder entrepreneurial endeavours. This study contributes to the literature on African Academic Entrepreneurship by providing empirical evidence on the challenges and opportunities facing universities in Africa. The results underscore the need for interventions to enhance entrepreneurial activities in higher education institutions, and offer recommendations for policy development and program implementation to foster entrepreneurship in academia.

Key Words: Academic Entrepreneurship, Departmental Entrepreneurial Capabilities, University Entrepreneurship Support System