Lecturers’ Creativity and Students’ Entrepreneurial Intention in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This study examined the influence of lecturers’ creativity on the entrepreneurial intention of technical college students in Saudi Arabia, applying the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). The study employed a questionnaire, which was completed by 99 technical college students in the study area. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to perform the data analysis and to test the hypotheses. The study’s findings revealed that attitude towards behaviour and perceived behavioural control predicted entrepreneurial intention. They also partially mediated the relationship between lecturers’ creativity and entrepreneurial intention. Finally, entrepreneurial intention was not influenced by subjective norms. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the significance of lecturers’ creativity in developing entrepreneurial intention by applying the TPB among technical college students. The results could assist stakeholders, such as technical colleges, universities, policymakers and other parties, in establishing a more creative entrepreneurial environment. The study findings further emphasize the need to support creative lecturers capable of improving students’ essential entrepreneurial skills, knowledge, values and competencies. The study was limited to only one technical college in Saudi Arabia with a limited sample size, making it challenging to generalize the results. Future research could investigate individuals’ exact skills and knowledge, supporting and attracting them to enrol in technical college and pursue entrepreneurial business activities.