Helixpreneur in action: Cultivating entrepreneurial skills through experiential learning among non business undergraduates

Abstract

This study aims to explore the development of entrepreneurial skills among non
business students through entrepreneurship education. Specifically, it focuses on 30 Applied
Science students from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) who had no prior knowledge or
experience in entrepreneurship. The students participated in a four-week hands-on selling
activity involving Harumanis-based products. This initiative was designed within the
framework of the Triple Helix Model, representing collaboration among universities, industry,
and government, and was implemented using Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory to ensure
practical, real-world engagement. Throughout the activity, students engaged in product
promotion, customer interaction, financial tracking, and strategic business planning. As a
result, they collectively generated a total revenue of RM7,377.28, earned commissions
amounting to RM877.50, and received FAMA vouchers valued at RM120.00. Notably, all
participating students achieved an A grade in the ENT300 entrepreneurship course, indicating
strong academic and practical performance. The study identified eight key entrepreneurial
skills developed through the program: self-motivation, risk-taking, creativity, leadership,
communication, networking, financial literacy, and business planning. These skills emerged
naturally as students navigated real-world business challenges, made decisions under pressure,
and adapted to market demands. The findings demonstrate that entrepreneurship education,
when supported by experiential learning and strategic collaboration among academia,
industry, and government, can effectively foster entrepreneurial competencies among non
business students. This initiative proved successful in cultivating essential skills, suggesting
that similar programs should be expanded to other faculties to prepare future graduates for the
demands of a dynamic global economy.