Abstract:
Entrepreneurship is increasingly viewed as a vital engine of economic growth,
innovation, and employment. As such, institutions of higher education (HEIs) are
now tasked with creating learning environments that not only provide theoretical
knowledge but also develop entrepreneurial skills in learners. This study aims to
examine how an innovation- and technology-oriented model can enhance
entrepreneurial outcomes for students in higher education. A qualitative research
design was utilized. Data were collected through document analysis of 20 current
educational models and 10 semi-structured interviews with educators and
entrepreneurship experts, selected based on their experience in entrepreneurship
education and technology integration. The results were thematically coded in an
attempt to identify a conceptual framework based on experiential learning, cross disciplinary cooperation, and the use of digital tools. The resulting framework
highlights four pillars of central significance: entrepreneurial mindset building,
digital technology integration into teaching and learning, encouraging cross disciplinary collaboration, and buildingdge an empowering institutional culture. The
study emphasizes that technology should be used not only as a content delivery tool
but also as a platform for ideation, experimentation, and problem-solving.
Hackathons, innovation laboratories, virtual simulations, and business incubators
were mentioned as appropriate applications that best overlap academic learning and
real-world entrepreneurial challenges. The research demonstrates that HEIs need to
adapt their curricula and learning environments to support technological development
and the needs of the new economy. In Sri Lanka, where youth entrepreneurship and
innovation are policy priorities, this model provides a tool to scale up entrepreneurial
education and promote inclusive, sustainable development. Integrating innovation
and technology into academic teaching prepares graduates to create and sustain
successful entrepreneurial ventures.
