Entrepreneurial intentions among polytechnic students in India: Examining the theory of planned behaviour using PLS-SEM

This study delves into the factors that kindle entrepreneurial intentions among Indian polytechnic students, shedding light on the pivotal roles of course curriculum, institutional support, family, and peers. Prior research in various fields has often employed the theory of planned behaviour to explore entrepreneurial intentions. However, a noticeable gap exists as no study has investigated this phenomenon among polytechnic students until now. This research uses the theory of planned behaviour to scrutinize entrepreneurial intentions among students in government polytechnic colleges in Malappuram and Calicut districts in India. Analyzing data from 254 valid questionnaires, the study employs the Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling method for analysis. The results reveal that peers significantly influence perceived behavioural control, attitude, and subjective norms. These findings resonate with earlier studies and emphasize the critical roles of peers, course curriculum, and institutional support in shaping entrepreneurial intentions. Ultimately, the findings underscore the potential of tailoring polytechnic education towards entrepreneurship, offering technical students opportunities for growth and facilitating positive economic and societal transformations.