Work

Perceptions and Preparedness for Self-employment in Agriculture Among Final-year Undergraduate Students at Sokoine University of Agriculture

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Agriculture remains a cornerstone of economic development in sub-Saharan Africa, offering significant opportunities for employment and innovation.However, youth unemployment persists, with many young graduates perceiving agriculture as a less attractive career path due to challenges such as limited access to capital, inadequate skills, and market uncertainties.This study investigates the perceptions and entrepreneurial readiness of final-year undergraduate students at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) for self-employment in the agricultural sector.A descriptive survey design was employed, involving a stratified random sample of 202 students drawn from a population of 1,344.Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Key findings indicate that 84% of students perceive self-employment in agriculture as a viable career option, with no significant gender differences (p = 0.620).While 76% acknowledged the risks of market uncertainties, the difference in risk perception between genders was insignificant (p = 0.591).Opportunities for innovation in agriculture were positively perceived, with 85% of respondents agreeing, and no significant variations across demographics (p > 0.500).Self-efficacy emerged as a critical factor, with 81% expressing confidence in acquiring the necessary skills for self-employment.Regression analysis revealed that prior exposure to entrepreneurial training (β = 0.45, p < 0.001) and practical International Journal of Current Research and Applied Studies | https://ijcras.com/• International Journal of Current Research and Applied Studies (IJCRAS) Vol 4 Issue 1 Jan-Feb 2025internships (β = 0.32, p < 0.01) significantly enhanced students' preparedness.The findings underscore the need for targeted curricular and extracurricular interventions to foster entrepreneurial skills and mitigate barriers to agricultural self-employment.These insights provide a foundation for policy and institutional reforms aimed at empowering youth in agricultural entrepreneurship.

Source: International Journal of Current Research and Applied Studies

DOI: 10.61646/ijcras.vol.4.issue1.112

Authors: Sanka, S Silvia, Ahmad A. Kyaruzi, Rasel M. Madaha

Institution: Sokoine University of Agriculture

Language: English

Topic: Agricultural Development and Management

Subfield: General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Zero hunger, Quality education

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W4409363603