Beyond the Classroom: Implementing Entrepreneurial Education to Empower School Students for Social Cohesion and Economic Empowerment

Abstract

This paper explores the design, implementation, and impact of an entrepreneurial education pilot program aimed at re-engaging secondary school students (Grades 8–10) who have become disengaged due to Sri Lanka’s exam-centric, theoretical, and outdated curriculum. Using a qualitative research methodology with inductive thematic analysis of data from 25 purposively sampled students across three government schools, the study finds that students previously labeled "academically weak" demonstrate strong entrepreneurial capabilities when provided with practical, income-generating opportunities. The program implemented through school-based "Entrepreneur Clubs" improved student engagement, self-efficacy, school attendance, and social cohesion. The paper concludes with a replicable framework and policy recommendations for integrating entrepreneurial education into formal secondary schooling.