Entrepreneurship Education Beyond Western Models: A Critical Analysis of Decolonized Curricula and Innovative Outcomes in Africa
Abstract
Entrepreneurship education has gained global prominence as a strategic tool for fostering innovation, job creation, and economic development. However, its dominant reliance on Western models has raised concern about its relevance and effectiveness in non-Western contexts, particularly in developing economies. This paper critically examines entrepreneurship education beyond Western frameworks with a focus on the role of decolonised curricula in enhancing innovative outcomes. It argues that the continues adoption of Eurocentric approaches often overlooks indigenous knowledge systems, local economic realities, and culturally embedded entrepreneurial practices which limit students’ capacity to generate context-specific solutions. The paper adopts a critical analytical approach to explore how decolonised entrepreneurship curricula can provide a more inclusive and relevant framework for teaching and learning. With the integration of indigenous knowledge, experiential learning, and community-based practices, decolonised curricula foster creativity that is grounded in local realities that is capable of addressing real-world challenges. Such an approach encourages learners to view their environment as a source of opportunity that promote sustainable and socially responsive innovation. Furthermore, the paper highlights the innovative outcomes associated with decolonized entrepreneurship education including enhanced problem-solving skills, increased entrepreneurial self-reliance, and the development of locally adaptable business models. Despite these benefits, challenges such as institutional resistance, limited capacity, and globalization pressures continue to hinder the transition from Western-dominated frameworks. The paper concludes that moving beyond Western models is essential for achieving meaningful and sustainable innovation in entrepreneurship education. It advocates for a balanced approach that integrates global