OPPORTUNITIES TO FOSTER THE DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS' SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP COMPETENCES AT HIGHER EDUCATION LEVEL

Abstract

Purpose and aim of the study: The aim of the study is to explore the development of social entrepreneurship competences at higher education level, to identify which competences are relevant for social entrepreneurship and what methods can be used to develop them.Design / Methodology / Approach: General research methods are used in the research: information analysis and synthesis, content analysis, for obtaining quantitative data - questionnaires, and for obtaining qualitative data - structured interview and focus groups. Main Findings: The study explored the theoretical underpinnings of social entrepreneurship competencies, highlighted their role in promoting innovation, social impact and responsible entrepreneurship, and collected examples of best practice in creating an ecosystem within universities with structured support for the development of student competencies.Originality: The originality of the study lies in the possibility of detailed analysis of the existing experience in this field in different European countries and subsequent adaptation of solutions to Latvian reality. Implications: Social entrepreneurship, with its focus on innovative solutions to societal issues, has gained significant prominence in recent years, prompting the need for educational institutions to adapt their curricula to empower students in this domain.