Role of gender and exposure on entrepreneurial attitudes of Omani university students

Abstract

This study adds the Oman context to our knowledge base investigating the entrepreneurial attitudes and intentions of university students across multiple nations. This individual level study examines how gender and the previous work exposure are associated with the entrepreneurial attitudes of the Omani university students. The entrepreneurial attitudes orientation (EAO) survey instrument (with four subscales) was used to measure the entrepreneurial attitudes of 144 Omani students. Exposure was measured through current or previous small business ownership, previous work exposure and family exposure. The research adds to the literature in the cultural and regional context and contributes to the existing knowledge by suggesting a theory-based understanding of the role of attitudes in the formation of entrepreneurial intentions. The study proposes how the policy makers can support young entrepreneurs to start novel business ventures in the region by creating a comprehensive entrepreneurial ecosystem which can contribute in the socio-economic development of the Sultanate of Oman.