Entrepreneurial Skill Development in Tanzanian Secondary Education

Purpose: This study evaluates the importance of Entrepreneurship Education for Adolescents in Secondary Schools in Tanzania to ascertain whether it should be a mandatory subject. The objectives are to identify the factors influencing entrepreneurship education for adolescents in secondary schools and to determine how educational policies, theories, and empirical studies address this topic. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: The study used a systematic literature review to evaluate the importance of Entrepreneurship Education for Adolescents in Secondary Schools in Tanzania. The articles were sourced from three databases: Scopus-indexed journals, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate. The study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Thus, the study identified a suitable sample of 55 studies. The extracted data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns, themes, and insights across the literature. Findings: The study shows that providing entrepreneurship education at the secondary school level is vital for equipping students with the skills and mindset necessary for entrepreneurial success in the modern economy. Moreover, the analysis shows that none of the studies included the term “teaching environment” in their titles. Research Limitation: Including specific empirical studies and policy documents may reflect the researchers' biases or preferences, which could influence the conclusions drawn. This selection bias might limit the diversity of perspectives, especially if only certain studies or policies are emphasised. Practical Implication: The study proposes the formulation or amendment of a policy mandating entrepreneurship education for all students in secondary schools in Tanzania and improving the teaching environment to ensure adequate entrepreneurship training equipment in all schools. Social Implication: The findings support the notion that making entrepreneurship education a mandatory subject can equip students with valuable skills, enhance their motivation and confidence, and prepare them for future entrepreneurial endeavours and career opportunities. Originality / Value: This study contributed to the knowledge base on how entrepreneurship education for adolescents in secondary schools in Tanzania should be prioritised.