Curriculum design, entrepreneurial mindset, social Capital and perceived employability of university Graduates in Uganda
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Date
2025-11-17
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Makerere University Business School
Abstract
This study investigates the relationships between curriculum design, entrepreneurial mindset, social capital, and the perceived employability of university graduates in Uganda, focusing on
the mediating role of social capital. The study addresses the challenge of high graduate unemployment in Uganda, attributed to insufficient practical skills, weak networks, and limited job market preparation. The objectives were to explore the direct relationships between curriculum design, entrepreneurial mindset, and social capital with perceived employability, and to assess the mediating effects of social capital on these relationships. A cross-sectional research design employing a quantitative approach was used. Data were collected through structured questionnaires from a sample of 384 third-year students across Ugandan universities. Analysis was conducted using correlation and regression techniques, with mediation tested using Sobel tests and indirect-to-total effect ratios. The findings indicate significant positive correlations between curriculum design, entrepreneurial mindset, and social capital with perceived employability. Regression analysis shows that curriculum design, entrepreneurial mindset, and social capital are all significant predictors of employability, with social capital demonstrating the strongest predictive effect (B = .488, p < .001). Mediation analysis reveals that social capital partially mediates the relationships of both curriculum design and entrepreneurial mindset with perceived employability, accounting for 73% and 74% of their effects, respectively. These results emphasize the critical role of social capital in translating academic and entrepreneurial competencies into employability outcomes. The study concludes that while curriculum design and entrepreneurial mindset independently contribute to employability, their effectiveness is significantly enhanced through the
relational resources provided by social capital. The study recommends integrating structured networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and experiential learning into educational curricula to strengthen social capital and improve graduate employability. Furthermore, policy interventions should focus on equitable access to social capital resources to bridge gaps in employment pportunities across diverse graduate populations.
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This is a master's thesis.
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Citation
Drileba, J. (2025). Curriculum design, entrepreneurial mindset, social capital, and perceived employability of university graduates in Uganda. (unpublished master's dissertation). Makerere University Business School, Kampala, Uganda.