An entrepreneurial education model for the Namibian Higher Education system

Abstract

PURPOSE : The aim of this paper is to develop an entrepreneurial education model for implementation in the Namibian Higher Education system. Namibia, just like South Africa, has an objective to develop small, medium and micro enterprises to enhance economic growth and reduce unemployment. Development of such a model is supported by the government of Namibia. This paper investigates appropriate entrepreneurial education models used in South Africa for this purpose. DESIGN / METHODOLOGY / APPROACH : This research is an exploratory research design based upon secondary data mainly provided by the Namibian Economic Policy Research Unit (NEPRU) that enabled the researcher to understand and identify the problems that Namibia encounter in their small business environment. Theories, as developed by the University of Pretoria based on entrepreneurial education, were explored and formed the base of the theory exploration. FINDINGS : The researcher investigated an existing entrepreneurial education model being used for the South African context, as well as a comparison of two models, and an integrated model based on the cited models. These models are used to show the importance of such models and the need to develop one for Namibia. IMPLICATIONS : This paper presents a model that can solve the basic need expressed by the Namibian Higher Education System to find an appropriate model to implement. ORIGINALITY / VALUE : This paper provides a foundation from which an entrepreneurial education model can be implemented and improved / customised for the Namibian context.