FOSTERING ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSETS IN ENGINEERING EDUCATION: INSIGHTS FROM A CASE STUDY OF GREEN INNOVATION INITIATIVES

Andra DIACONESCU, Matei TAMASILA, Ilie Mihai TAUCEAN

Abstract


In the contemporary economic landscape, the university ecosystem actively promotes relevant occupational skills among students. These skills contribute to the advancement of business communities within Romania. To achieve this, higher education institutions seek to enhance students' entrepreneurial competencies through targeted educational initiatives. The study included 215 participants, aged 20 to 25 years. This demographic, focused on young adults, is essential for interpreting the scope and applicability of the findings. These individuals expressed a willingness to engage in entrepreneurial programs and activities within the academic sphere. The study proposed the use of specific tools and frameworks to establish a new strategic direction, referred to as a "blue ocean," by creating an entrepreneurial centre. This hub engages stakeholders from Timisoara and provides practical green entrepreneurial workshops with tangible decision-making implications. The integration of entrepreneurial skills into the university learning environment began with the discovery of business tools. These tools facilitated the development of workshops focused on enhancing green entrepreneurial knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs).

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