Comparative Study of Entrepreneurial Intention and Motivation among HND and BTech Hospitality Students: A Case of Kumasi Technical University

Abstract

Entrepreneurship is pivotal in economic growth and job creation, particularly in the hospitality industry. Entrepreneurial intention among technical university students has the potential to provide an understanding of the impact of education on entrepreneurial intentions. This study investigates the entrepreneurial intention of HND and BTech Hospitality students of Kumasi Technical University, focusing on disparities in motivation, ability, and ambition between the two student groups. The research aims to compare entrepreneurial motivation levels, examine the primary determinants of entrepreneurial motivation, and assess the impact of curriculum and practice training on students' entrepreneurial intentions. A quantitative research approach is applied, using descriptive and inferential statistical analysis to test differences in entrepreneurial motivation. Primary data is collected with the help of a pre-coded questionnaire completed by 200 students (100 BTech students and 100 HND students) chosen via stratified random sampling. Inferential statistics (regression analysis, t-tests) and descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) are used to examine relationships and differences between entrepreneurial motivation across the two groups. The findings show that BTech students possess higher entrepreneurial intentions than HND students, perhaps due to broader academic exposure, greater development of skills, and greater career aspirations. Both, however, face similar barriers such as limited access to funding and inadequate counseling. The study highlights the imperative of integrating enterprise training, business incubation facilities, and industry-academic links into hotel and catering education. Improving practical training and exposure to capital resources will better equip hospitality students for entrepreneurial success in Ghana's hospitality sector.