Challenges of Early Integration of Basic Entrepreneurship Studies into Preschool Education Curriculum for Sustainable Development in Oyo State

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges associated with the early integration of Basic Entrepreneurship Studies into preschool education in Oyo State, Nigeria, emphasizing teacher preparedness, availability of instructional materials, and the robustness of policy frameworks. Employing a mixed-methods research design, data were collected from 270 participants, comprising preschool educators, administrators, parents, and curriculum officers. Quantitative findings indicate moderate levels of teacher preparedness (Mean = 2.56–2.63), with significant deficiencies in training and resource provision; notably, 64% of classrooms lacked instructional materials pertinent to entrepreneurship. Policy implementation emerged as a primary obstacle, with 84.8% of respondents highlighting the absence of explicit national directives guiding early childhood entrepreneurship education. Qualitative insights from 30 key informant interviews corroborated these findings, underscoring the necessity for policy reforms, practical teacher training initiatives, and community engagement. Stakeholders particularly emphasized the development of tailored policies for preschool entrepreneurship education, the implementation of hands-on mentoring programs for teachers, and the need to address societal misconceptions that equate entrepreneurship solely with informal trading activities. Additional concerns included resource limitations, the absence of appropriate assessment tools, and inadequate inter-agency collaboration. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.71, p < 0.001) was identified between the extent of teacher training and readiness for implementation. The study concludes that effective integration of entrepreneurship education at the preschool level necessitates a comprehensive approach encompassing curriculum revision, targeted professional development for educators, and alignment among stakeholders to reconcile disparities between policy intentions and practical execution. Such measures are vital for cultivating entrepreneurial mindsets in early childhood, aligning with sustainable development objectives.