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A Longitudinal Study of Conditional Student Entrepreneurship in an Emerging Economy

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  • Ugochukwu Chinonso Okolie

Abstract

This study explores how students from low-income families with no prior entrepreneurial experience engage in conditional student entrepreneurship (CSE). Longitudinal data from 30 undergraduates across two Nigerian public universities revealed that resource constraints and significant loss events threaten students’ educational pursuits. However, rather than dropping out to pursue unskilled jobs, the students opt for CSE to generate income and persist in their education. Through the findings, a model of CSE for financial stability was developed to shed light on an overlooked phenomenon in emerging economies. The findings contribute to academic, policy, and practical implications.

Suggested Citation

  • Ugochukwu Chinonso Okolie, 2025. "A Longitudinal Study of Conditional Student Entrepreneurship in an Emerging Economy," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 49(1), pages 89-128, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:entthe:v:49:y:2025:i:1:p:89-128
    DOI: 10.1177/10422587241254062
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    References listed on IDEAS

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