Exploring the lack of entrepreneurial undertaking among geomatics graduates of Mangosuthu University of Technology from 2018 to 2024.

Abstract

Graduate unemployment remains a persistent challenge in South Africa, despite increasing access to higher education (HE). Entrepreneurship has been identified as a potential pathway to employment creation; however, limited entrepreneurial uptake among geomatics graduates remains evident. The aim of this study was to explore the factors contributing to the lack of entrepreneurial undertaking among geomatics graduates at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) between 2018 and 2024. A qualitative research approach, grounded in an interpretivist paradigm, was employed using a case study design and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as a theoretical lens. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with geomatics graduates and analysed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework. The analysis revealed seven key themes: limitations in entrepreneurial training; barriers to entering entrepreneurship; social and individual circumstances; perceptions of the geomatics industry; entrepreneurial intentions and mindsets; career trajectory and professional development; and the practicalities of running a geomatics business. The findings indicate that insufficient business training, regulatory constraints, financial barriers, limited industry exposure and perceptions of job security significantly influence graduates’ reluctance to pursue entrepreneurship. The study concludes that strengthening entrepreneurship education within the geomatics curriculum, enhancing industry engagement and improving access to funding and professional support may foster entrepreneurial intentions among graduates. This research contributes to understanding entrepreneurship across nonbusiness disciplines and offers practical recommendations for curriculum development and policy interventions in HE institutions.