Factors Affecting Social Entrepreneurial Intent: Significance of Student Engagement Initiatives in Higher Education Institutions

PURPOSE: The present study aims to test the social entrepreneurial intent model among students in the Indian scenario. Research on students opting for social entrepreneurial ventures as a career option is yet to be studied in-depth in the Indian context. The present study will help create a suitable ecosystem in higher education institutions through well-designed student engagement initiatives to convert job seekers into social value creators. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The study used a questionnaire submitted to 439 students to collect their responses on the initiatives taken by higher education institutions in India to kindle students' social entrepreneurial intent. Smart PLS methodology was used to test the model. FINDINGS: The findings show that prior experience, empathy, self-efficacy, and perceived social support directly impact social entrepreneurial intentions (SEI). In contrast, moral obligation has no impact on SEI in the Indian context. Student's exposure to organisations that deal with social causes is the most preferred student engagement initiative. ORIGINALITY: There are few studies in India on higher education institutions' role in kindling social entrepreneurial intent among students. The present study proposed dedicated student engagement initiatives to bridge the gap in the existing literature on social entrepreneurship in the given context. IMPLICATIONS: Higher education institutions' student engagement initiatives can kindle social entrepreneurial intent among students pragmatic with an inclusive approach. It will, in turn, create a desirable social impact.