Habilidades, competências e a intenção empreendedora nos cursos de Ciências agrarias da Universidade federal do Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract

Entrepreneurial education, especially in agrarian sciences, is still underdeveloped, but some courses include disciplines in economics and administration. Implementing entrepreneurial education in the early stages is crucial because children and adolescents are more inclined to explore and have a lower aversion to risk. In higher education institutions, the inclusion of practical and playful subjects can spark interest in entrepreneurship, and at UFRN, entrepreneurial education in agrarian sciences is still in its infancy. However, there is a growing demand from faculty to stimulate this learning through study groups, specific subjects, and the junior enterprise movement, which offers practical experience and skill development. Historically, Brazilian education has formed employees rather than employers, limiting entrepreneurial education to a few courses. Having an entrepreneurial attitude means acting to turn ideas into reality, influenced by socio-cultural and educational environments. The target population of this research consisted of undergraduate agrarian sciences students at UFRN, with a sample of 120 students. A descriptive analysis was used, comparing responses with similar studies, based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. It was observed that parental influence, although significant, is not sufficient to develop entrepreneurial intention, but the influence of friendships is notable. Fear and risk aversion were also highlighted, indicating a lack of experience and study on the subject. It is concluded that entrepreneurial education in agrarian sciences still faces challenges, but there is a strong desire to undertake among students.