Student entrepreneurship competency and mindset: examining the influence of education, role models, and gender

Abstract This research aims to explore the interplay among entrepreneurial education, role models, and gender on students' entrepreneurial competence and mindset. Using purposive sampling, 306 participants enrolled in entrepreneurship and innovation-related courses at UAEU completed an online survey. The research used statistical analyses, including Spearman's Rank Correlations, Cramer's V correlation, Mann–Whitney U, and multiple linear regression, to explore variable relationships. Findings indicate that access to entrepreneurial role models is associated with higher competence, emphasizing resource mobilization and fostering a growth mindset. Active engagement in entrepreneurship courses correlates with enhanced innovative thinking and networking. Despite gender-based disparities, statistical analysis indicates minimal impact on students' ability to generate novel business ideas. This study contributes insights to entrepreneurship education literature, offering practical implications for educators and institutions.