Interest And Perceived Challenges In Small Scale Entrepreneurship Development Among Budding Professionals In Hospitality Industry In Abia State.

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the interest and perceived challenges of entrepreneurship development in hospitality industry as perceived by undergraduates of tertiary institutions in Abia State. The study was carried out primarily through the survey method in three higher institutions in Abia state, namely Michael Okpara University, Abia State University and Abia State Polytechnic. The study had population size of 80 out of which a sample size of 67 was realized using Taro Yamane formula at 5% error tolerance and 95% level of confidence. Instrument used for data collection was primarily questionnaire .sixty seven copies of questionaires were administered to sixty seven undergraduates sampled from the three institutions. Result revealed constraints that hinder young people from starting and running a business, and at the same time incentives that makes starting a business a viable alternative for young people for young people in Abia state. Chi-Square statistical tool was used to test the hypotheses using. The study however recommends that , private sector and NGOs need to strengthen the existing empowerment programmes that are geared towards encouraging entrepreneurs to identif' opportunities that exist within the Nigerian business environment, Promotion of enterprise education is the heart of any youth entrepreneurship policy, raising awareness and familiarizing young people with entrepreneurship in hospitality as a valuable career path.