Determining the Roles of School Management Teams in Fostering Entrepreneurship among Learners

Abstract

This study explored the roles of School Management Teams (SMTs) in fostering entrepreneurship education among learners. Entrepreneurship is recognised as a vital driver of economic growth, innovation, and job creation, making it increasingly necessary to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and skill set in learners. SMTs, comprising school administrators, teachers, parents and community representatives, are pivotal in shaping and developing the entrepreneurial potential of students. However, little research has focused specifically on the roles of SMTs in this domain. The study applied a Systematic Literature Review, where 2518 papers were reviewed from academic databases and other research sources, including SAGE, Wiley, Elsevier, and Inderscience, to find pertinent studies published in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and reports. Two main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Current roles of SMTs in fostering entrepreneurship among learners, including curriculum development, resource allocation, teacher professional development, community engagement, learner support and guidance, evaluation and assessment, and policy development; and (2) Advising roles of SMTs to foster entrepreneurship in learners, encompassing individual student guidance, group mentoring, career counselling, connecting students with resources, monitoring progress, and celebrating success. Recommendations include strengthening collaboration and networking, providing continuous professional development for SMT members, integrating entrepreneurship education into the curriculum, establishing school support structures, implementing effective evaluation and assessment mechanisms, and engaging in policy advocacy. By implementing these recommendations, SMTs could enhance their roles in fostering entrepreneurship among learners, creating a supportive and conducive ecosystem that nurtures and develops entrepreneurial attitudes and competencies.