The contribution of personality trait in Entrepreneurial intentions among University students in kenya

Abstract

Promotion of entrepreneurship in Kenya has existed ever since independence. The Government has shown tremendous support to entrepreneurship growth. Among the support shown by the government of Kenya includes of availing funds, improving infrastructure, improving security, decentralization of services among others. Nevertheless, youth unemployment has persistently been a major challenge in Kenya. This researcher sought to investigate whether individual personality has any contribution in an individual becoming an entrepreneur. Chi-square model was used to determine whether independent variables have any influence on the dependent variable. Spearman’s Rho Correlation was used to establish the degree of relationship between variables. The target population were university students pursuing a degree in entrepreneurship. Out of 478 students, 236 were taken as a sample size out of which 212 responded. Data was then analysed using SPSS. Friedman’s five point likert scale was used to measure the extent of influence between the variables. The research indicated a moderate positive correlation of 0.65 on how personality trait contributes to entrepreneurship engagement. Out of the research findings, the researcher recommended opportunities that would allow students to participate in entrepreneurship contests, partnership with prominent business, inviting business executives to deliver lectures, to facilitate business idea generation. In conclusion, this study observed that personality trait has a positive effect in inculcating entrepreneurial intention. Future researchers can consider the effect of entrepreneurship in Kenyan polytechnics and other organizations that offer entrepreneurship courses. Chi-square was the model applied in this research; future researchers might consider causal models such as multiple linear and non-linear regression models.