The continued embedding of enterprise within universities relies on timely education and aligning with good practice frameworks. Dr Yaw Afari and Dr Robert Crammond, from the University of the West of Scotland, highlight distinct ABC themes for advancing enterprising education.
Future graduates, and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) totalling around 5.6 million in the UK (2023), are the backbone of the economy. Much like universities, businesses are a source of ideas, progress, and productivity. However, in today’s climate, they are vulnerable, work with finite, stretched, or costly resources, and constantly react to change and volatility. As desired from timely and Enterprising Education (EE), being creative and innovative can help overcome these issues.
In recent years, the role of the university has been instrumental in responding to, and supporting, institutions and local business. Within the UK's ever-evolving higher education landscape, universities are incorporating entrepreneurial elements into their curricula and launching innovative programs that provide practical experiences to students. Partnerships between universities and industry subsequently achieve outstanding results, for many.
Universities have unique opportunities to develop collaborative relationships with business. Educational frameworks, and all universities in some form, have acknowledged the vital role of creative EE in unlocking opportunities for businesses, enabling them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to communities.
