Examining Graduating Science and Technology Student’s Entrepreneurial Intentions at the University of Biskra

Using Krueger’s entrepreneurial event model, this study investigated the factors influencing entrepreneurial intentions among graduating science and technology students at the University of Biskra. A descriptive-analytical approach was adopted in the research in order to examine the direct and indirect effects of perceived desire, perceived feasibility, entrepreneurial opportunities, and inclinations on entrepreneurial intentions. Data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to a random sample of students, and the hypotheses were tested using structural equation modelling (SEM). The findings revealed that the self-efficacy and perceived opportunities significantly and positively impacted entrepreneurial intentions, whereas perceived feasibility did not have a direct effect. However, both perceived desire and feasibility indirectly influenced intentions by mediating perceived opportunities. Additionally, the study demonstrated that entrepreneurial inclination modified the relationship between perceived opportunities and entrepreneurial intentions, indicating that students with a higher inclination were more likely to translate opportunities into entrepreneurial actions. Moreover, the study highlighted the complex interplay between individual and contextual factors in shaping entrepreneurial intentions. It underscored the need for targeted initiatives that could enhance the self-efficacy and perceived opportunities among students. These initiatives could include entrepreneurship education programs, mentorship schemes, and the creation of a supportive university environment that fosters innovation and risk-taking. The implications of these findings are significant for policymakers and educational institutions aiming to cultivate an entrepreneurial ecosystem among university students. By comprehending what motivates people to become entrepreneurs, universities can enhance their program and support system designs, motivating students to embark on entrepreneurial paths. Consequently, this contributes to economic growth and the generation of employment opportunities. This is particularly important in contexts where public sector employment opportunities are limited. Future research could expand the scope to include multiple universities and explore the longitudinal impacts of entrepreneurial education and support programs on students’ career trajectories. Additionally, addressing the intention-behaviour gap in entrepreneurship remains a critical area for further investigation.