Impact of entrepreneurship education on students’ understanding of global markets and the productive economy: A literature review

Abstract

Entrepreneurship serves as a key catalyst for innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth in developing societies. This paper reviews existing literature to evaluate how entrepreneurship education enhances students’ understanding of global markets and the productive economy. Using studies published between January 2015 and September 2025, the review synthesizes evidence from diverse contexts to explore cognitive, experiential, and skill-based learning outcomes. The analysis highlights recurring themes such as adaptability, resilience, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning, revealing that entrepreneurship education significantly improves students’ economic awareness and entrepreneurial intentions. Methodologically, a structured qualitative review was applied across multiple academic databases using defined inclusion criteria. Ten studies were examined in depth, showing consistent links between entrepreneurship education and enhanced global market literacy, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, and practical business application. The paper contributes to theory by integrating insights from critical realism and evolutionary economics, offering an interdisciplinary framework for analyzing entrepreneurship education’s societal impact. In practice, the findings suggest that embedding global market simulations and intercultural experiences within curricula can strengthen students’ preparedness for dynamic economies. The review concludes with implications for policymakers, educators, and future researchers.

Keywords: {'name': 'Adaptability, economic awareness, entrepreneurship education, global markets, innovation, resilience'}

Authors & affiliations

Elizabeth Oluwakemi Ayandibu
University of Zululand

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