Abstract

This study investigates the influence of entrepreneurship education on youth innovation capacity in Namibia between 2016 and 2024. Using an education–innovation analytical framework, the research involved surveys of 4,300 students from universities, vocational institutions, and secondary schools, combined with interviews with 45 entrepreneurship lecturers, startup mentors, and policymakers. Curriculum reviews were conducted to determine the depth, practical orientation, and industry alignment of entrepreneurship programs. Results show that institutions offering experiential learning—such as business simulations, incubator participation, and mentorship—produced students with significantly higher innovation and venture-creation scores. Regression analysis confirmed that exposure to practical entrepreneurship training positively predicted youth innovation (p < 0.01). However, gaps persisted in rural schools where entrepreneurship education remained theoretical due to resource constraints. Students cited limited funding, inadequate access to digital tools, and weak industry linkages as barriers to innovation implementation. Successful case studies from Windhoek and Walvis Bay showed that partnerships between universities and local industries enhanced students’ prototyping and business-development skills. The study concludes that entrepreneurship education substantially contributes to youth innovation in Namibia but requires systematic reforms to ensure national coverage. Recommendations include integrating practical entrepreneurship modules across all education levels, increasing innovation grants, expanding incubators to rural regions, and strengthening public–private partnerships. Overall, enhancing entrepreneurship education is critical for building a resilient, innovation-driven economy in Namibia.