Influence of Entrepreneurship Risk Perceptions and Aversion on Entrepreneurial Intention among University Students In South Africa

Several scholarly efforts have previously investigated and contributed to student entrepreneurship interest in developed countries, yet little has been achieved in South Africa. The present study explored the influence of entrepreneurship risk perceptions and aversion on entrepreneurial intention with a sample of 366 (205 (56%) male and 161 (46%) female) university students in South Africa, using survey research design, and a structured validated questionnaire. Four hypotheses were stated and tested using Pearson Correlation Analysis, and Multiple Regression Analysis. The results confirmed the hypothesised significant relationship between entrepreneurial intention and risk aversion; and the relationship between entrepreneurship risk perceptions and aversion. No significant relationship between entrepreneurial intention and risk perceptions. The results further revealed that there is a significant joint influence of entrepreneurship risk perceptions and aversion on entrepreneurial intention, F (2, 363) = 4.340; R2 = 0.018; p<. 05; there is a significant independent influence of entrepreneurship risk aversion on entrepreneurship intention, (? = 0.156; t= 2.915; p< .01); but no significant influence of entrepreneurship risk perceptions on entrepreneurial intention. The findings are valuable to policy makers and professionals in promoting the spirit of entrepreneurship among the youth.