Author(s): Dhanapati Subedi, Bikash Ghaju, Menuka Sangraula
For the last few decades, academicians have been debating on developing entrepreneurial knowledge and skills through different higher education programs. At this backdrop, Kathmandu University started Master of Technical and Vocational Education Training (MTEVT) in 2018 with a purpose of enhancing entrepreneurial ideas and skills on the learners of coming generation. This study explores and analyzes the strategies of developing entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, acquired and applied by MTEVT students at Kathmandu University. This study set out the journey with a research question: How have MTEVT students of Kathmandu University been developing entrepreneurial knowledge and skills? This is a qualitative research and based on interpretivist paradigm within narrative method. The information collected from in-depth interviews of four participants were transcribed, coded, categorized, thematized and meanings were made. The study found that MTEVT students at Kathmandu University School of Education gained entrepreneurial knowledge and skills by courses and mentorship from experts. They were involved in hands on experiences during the course where they engaged themselves in elaborating cognition, networking and seeking advice from successful entrepreneurs. Even more, they were participating in events, workshops, webinars and conferences and being open to new ideas and talking calculative risks. Developing entrepreneurial knowledge and skills among students has become a pressing need in order to help them see opportunities and become self-sufficient. Students in Technical Education and Vocational Training (TEVT) programs must be creative and innovative in order to demonstrate what they are learning, being, and doing in their field. Courses, hands-on experiences, broadening knowledge horizons, networking, participation in events and conferences, and international exposure have all contributed to the development of entrepreneurial skills and knowledge among Kathmandu University School of Education MTEVT students.