The Role of Najran University in Spreading the Culture of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Achieving the Goals of Sustainable Development Among Students

Abstract

Purpose: Therefore, the study aimed to identify the role of Najran University in spreading the culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in achieving sustainable development goals among students, and the statistical differences therein according to the variables of gender, type of college, and academic year. Theoretical Framework: The culture of entrepreneurship and innovation is an important and valuable resource in achieving sustainable development goals in society. It is one of the main pillars and its driving force and one of the outlets for creating economic and social efficiency, innovation, and creativity among members of society. It is also one of the most important incubators to provide job opportunities for students and youth in the future, eradicate poverty and unemployment, and move towards free entrepreneurial work. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study used the descriptive approach by a survey method through a questionnaire, which consisted, of (27) items distributed in three main dimensions: the university's vision, mission, and goals, university leadership and support, and education and partnership for entrepreneurship and innovation, after verifying validity and reliability indications. The study sample consisted of (378) male and female students, of whom (186) male and (192) female students were selected from Najran University in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To conclude, descriptive statistical methods were used, "means and standard deviations" and parametric statistical analysis methods, such as the t-test for independent samples, one-way analysis of variance, and post-comparison by Scheffe's method. Findings: The results showed an average level in the role of the University of Najran in spreading the culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in achieving sustainable development goals among students at the total score and all areas of the study tool. The results also revealed statistically significant differences in the responses of the study sample about the level of the role of Najran University in spreading the culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in achieving the goals of sustainable development among students due to the variable of the academic year; the differences were in favor of students in the third and fourth years or more. In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in the variables of gender and type of college. Practical Implications: The study implicates for need of spreading rhe culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in achieving sustainable development goals among university students. Originality/Value: The study identifies the role of Najran University in spreading the culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in achieving sustainable development goals among students.