The Influence of Volunteerism to the Relationship of Academic Environment and Social Entrepreneurship Intentions: Empirical Evidence from a University in the Philippines

Research on social entrepreneurship intentions (SEI) focuses on personal predispositions but lacks examination of external factors. We investigated public sector volunteerism's role in mediating the academic environment's influence on SEI. Cross-sectional data from surveys with 300 university students, selected through stratified random sampling at a Philippine public university, was analyzed using Sobel mediation analysis. Results show positive impact of the academic environment on SEI, and public sector volunteerism significantly mediates this influence. Volunteerism in universities may enhance students' inclination to take on future social entrepreneurship roles in addressing societal issues and engaging with stakeholders. We suggest that such approach empower next generations to foster positive social change through social entrepreneurship.