Nurturing the Architects of a Sustainable Future: The Influence of University Ecosystems on Entrepreneurial Intentions

Abstract

The critical role of sustainable entrepreneurship in addressing global challenges necessitates a deeper understanding of its antecedents, particularly within higher education. This study investigates the influence of perceived university support on sustainable entrepreneurial intention (SEI) through the mediating mechanisms of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE), entrepreneurial alertness (EA), and attitude toward entrepreneurship (ATE). Data were collected from 450 university students in Pakistan and analyzed using regression and parallel mediation analysis with Hayes' PROCESS macro. The results indicate that university support has a significant positive direct effect on SEI. Furthermore, the relationships are significantly mediated by ESE, EA, and ATE, with attitude forming the strongest mediating pathway. These findings confirm that universities act as pivotal ecosystems that shape entrepreneurial intentions not just through resource provision, but by concurrently building students' confidence, sharpening their opportunity recognition skills, and fostering a positive disposition towards sustainable venturing. This study provides actionable insights for educators to design holistic support programs aimed at cultivating the next generation of sustainable entrepreneurs.