Perception about entrepreneurship among students at Alassane Ouattara University (Bouake, Cote D'ivoire)

Abstract

Work, while freeing man from needs, is a powerful factor for social integration. However, with the mismatch between demographic growth and job availability, we have observed an increase of unemployment rate since the1980s. In response to this unemployment, specifically among young people, aggravated by socio-political crises and the mismatch between training received in universities and the job market, the entrepreneurial solution seems to be the best option proposed by international organizations and African leaders. Côte d’Ivoire is not exempted from this logic. The aim of this study is then to analyze the perception about entrepreneurship among young people, particularly 3rd year sociology students at Alassane Ouattara University of Bouaké (Côte d’Ivoire). The study, both qualitative and quantitative, is based on focus group and questionnaire, concerns 156 students. For analysis, the study mobilized the model of formation of entrepreneurial event by Shapero and Sokol (1982) and the theory of reasoned action by Fishbein and Ajzen (1975). The research results show that overall, students do not perceive entrepreneurship as an opportunity. Yet, those who operate in an entrepreneurial environment have different vision.