Youth, Unemployment, and New Ventures: Exploring Entrepreneurial Intentions among Bangladeshi University Students

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing entrepreneurial intention among Bangladeshi university students. A descriptive quantitative research design was used, and primary data were obtained by using a self-structured questionnaire administered to 100 students from various disciplines. Twenty-eight items were measured in a five-point Likert scale for this instrument, and the dimensions included six factors that are entrepreneurial awareness and knowledge, entrepreneurial attitude and interest, motivational factors, barriers to entrepreneurship, opportunities, support and environment, and entrepreneurial intention. Reliability analysis indicated acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.785). The findings reveal that students have a moderate level of entrepreneurial awareness and knowledge, whereas they showed strong positive attitudes toward entrepreneurship, high motivation (particularly a desire for independence and financial autonomy), and relatively high entrepreneurial intention and confidence. At the same time, they also remark substantial barriers, especially financial constraints, fear of failure, lack of practical knowledge, and bureaucratic problems, together with weak institutional and policy support in terms of university education, government programs, mentorship, and investor access. Overall, the results indicate that students are psychologically prepared and motivated to engage in entrepreneurship, but the surrounding entrepreneurial ecosystem remains underdeveloped. The study highlights the need for more practice-oriented entrepreneurship education, improved access to finance, and stronger university–government–industry collaboration to be able to make the most out of the entrepreneurial potential of young Bangladeshis.