Culturally Rooted Entrepreneurial Pedagogy: Advancing Contextualized Teaching and Local Enterprise Development at the University of Antique

Abstract

This qualitative case study assessed the perceived effectiveness of culturally rooted entrepreneurial pedagogy in enhancing student engagement, competency development, and participation in local enterprise initiatives at Caluya Campus, University of Antique. Using purposive sampling, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurship instructors and supported by classroom observations and document analysis. Thematic analysis revealed three core findings: first, increased student interest and engagement due to the contextualization of entrepreneurial concepts using culturally familiar examples; second, strengthened entrepreneurial competencies through hands-on activities involving indigenous products and practices; and thirdly, heightened student participation in community-based and family enterprises as an extension of classroom learning. The results demonstrate that culturally rooted pedagogy fosters meaningful learning by validating students’ identities, enhancing their confidence, and promoting practical applications of entrepreneurial knowledge within the realities of rural life. Instructional strategies such as community immersion, local case studies, storytelling, and the use of visual aids in the local dialect proved effective in bridging theoretical content with lived experiences. These culturally relevant approaches empowered students to contribute to their household livelihoods, initiate micro-enterprises, and innovate with indigenous knowledge systems. The study concludes that integrating culture into entrepreneurship education strengthens both educational and economic outcomes in rural communities. It recommends institutional support for culturally responsive pedagogical practices to sustain local enterprise development and promote inclusive education. These findings have significant implications for curriculum development in higher education institutions serving culturally rich and economically marginalized regions.