Entrepreneurship awareness and gender disparities among undergraduates in Sri Lanka: bridging the intention-action gap

Abstract

Introduction

Entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth, particularly in developing economies like Sri Lanka, where limited job opportunities and high youth unemployment persist (ILO, 2020). University undergraduates, with their education and creativity, represent a promising group for entrepreneurial activity. Yet, despite high awareness, the transition from intention to action remains weak due to financial, educational, and socio-cultural barriers. Gender disparities exacerbate this challenge, as women face restrictive norms, limited support, and unequal opportunities, resulting in lower participation despite strong entrepreneurial intentions (Perera & Jayasinghe, 2017; de Mel, McKenzie, & Woodruff, 2009). The University Grants Commission’s (2018) Tracer Study further highlights graduate underemployment, underscoring the need for entrepreneurship as an alternative pathway (Jayawardena, 2019).

This study explores entrepreneurship awareness and aspirations among Sri Lankan undergraduates, with emphasis on gender disparities and barriers. The findings aim to inform inclusive policies that strengthen higher education’s role in fostering entrepreneurship.