BUSINESS EDUCATION FOR THE GROWTH OF UNDERSTANDING AND ADVANCEMENT OF SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

Abstract

Purpose of this article is to explore the understanding of social entrepreneurship among business administration students in Latvia. As each case of social enterprise is based on a specific social need and it encompasses a diversity of approaches and resources for its
resolution. In this respect it is important to consider the so-called human or social entrepreneurial leader.
Design / methodology / approaches of the article includes a survey of business administration students in Latvia on their perception and attitudes to social entrepreneurship. The theoretical aspect of the article describes the internationally recognised principles of social entrepreneurship while the practical aspect gives insight in key features that characterise understanding and implementation of social entrepreneurship in Latvia. The results and findings: of the article highlight the key issues that need to be addressed on different aspects and levels of the society, including education, to promote social entrepreneurship in Latvia.
Practical implications: social entrepreneurship is a rapidly developing and changing business field in which the traditional lines blur between business, government, and non-profit enterprises, and it is critical that business students understand the opportunities and challenges in this new landscape. The article may be used as guidelines for designing social enterprise education and development courses and workshops.
Value: This article provides value for institutions of formal higher education who are implementing business administration programmes and are looking for diversity of approaches to verify career opportunity among business students who want to help tackle
some of the European Union’s most pressing issues, such as high unemployment rates, poverty and social exclusion, ageing population thus make a difference towards a more just and sustainable world.