Qualitative Exploration: The Role of Technopreneurship in Higher Education
Keywords:
technopreneurship, higher education, innovation, institutional support, qualitative explorationAbstract
The rapid advancement of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and digital transformation has positioned technopreneurship as a key driver of innovation and economic growth. As a fusion of technology and entrepreneurship, technopreneurship serves as a vehicle for creating economic value and providing solutions to complex social challenges. However, despite its importance, the implementation of technopreneurship in academic settings remains hindered by several barriers, including a lack of conceptual understanding, limited institutional support, and a misalignment of the curriculum with industry needs. Using a qualitative approach, this study explores the dynamics of technopreneurship adoption among the academic community at Ivet University, Semarang. Data were collected through structured in-depth interviews with lecturers, educational staff, and students, then analyzed thematically to identify key factors influencing its implementation. The findings indicate that the implementation of technopreneurship varies widely, with three main orientations emerging: academic, economic, and social. While some lecturers demonstrate high technopreneurial potential through innovative learning tools and technology-based teaching strategies, others remain focused on routine tasks without engaging in entrepreneurial initiatives. Furthermore, institutional support and personal motivation are crucial factors in encouraging technopreneurial activities in the campus ecosystem. This study contributes to the literature by providing an in-depth understanding of technopreneurship adoption in higher education, emphasizing the interaction between individual agency and institutional structures. The results provide practical insights for higher education institutions seeking to integrate technopreneurship into their academic framework through faculty development programs, technology incubators, and curriculum enhancements.
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