Entrepreneurship as assessed by students of vocational education and training in the region: social attitudes and gender specifics

Abstract

The national socio-economic policy places significant emphasis on developing youth entrepreneurship, with state programs targeting university students. However, students in secondary vocational education programs, who provide the economy with skilled middle-level specialists, are often overlooked. This study surveyed students in vocational education programs at Tyumen Industrial University to understand their attitudes towards entrepreneurship and compared the results to similar surveys conducted by the analytical center NAFI. The study focused on cognitive, activity, and motivational components, as well as gender differences. Results revealed that while many students were interested in entrepreneurship, they did not always pursue it. The study identified potential business sectors and obstacles to starting a business. Gender differences were observed in motivation and choice of business sector. These findings can inform regional authorities seeking to improve policies aimed at developing youth entrepreneurship.