"EMPOWERING TOMORROW'S CHANGE MAKERS: INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION ON YOUTH SPENDING HABITS"

Abstract

Fostering responsible and sustainable consumption habits among the youth is imperative in today's constantly changing global environment. This research delves into the transformative potential of social entrepreneurship education in shaping the spending behaviors of young individuals. As young people stand at the cusp of becoming tomorrow's change makers, understanding the influence of education in social entrepreneurship on their financial choices becomes a pivotal area of exploration. The literature review elucidates the intersection of two critical domains: social entrepreneurship education and youth spending habits. It underscores the significance of financial literacy and responsible consumption as essential life skills. Existing research provides a foundation but reveals gaps in comprehending how structured social entrepreneurship programs can mold the spending behaviors of the youth. Grounded in the theory of transformative learning and social cognitive theory, my research design employs a mixed-methods approach. Surveys, interviews, and case studies are utilized to collect data from diverse youth populations, each exposed to varying degrees of social entrepreneurship education. A meticulous analysis of this data unveils intriguing patterns and insights into how such educational experiences influence youth spending habits. The results indicate a positive correlation between social entrepreneurship education and responsible spending choices among young individuals. Participants who have engaged in comprehensive social entrepreneurship programs display a heightened awareness of ethical consumption, a stronger inclination towards sustainable products, and an increased propensity to support socially responsible businesses. These findings underscore the transformative power of education and its potential to cultivate responsible citizens with a keen sense of economic and social responsibility. The discussion critically interprets these findings, emphasizing the implications for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders. The paper underscores the need for integrating social entrepreneurship education into formal curricula and community initiatives, providing young people with the tools to navigate a complex and interconnected world. Furthermore, it advocates for targeted policy measures to support youth-centric social entrepreneurial ventures.

Keywords: Social Entrepreneurship Education, Youth Spending Habits, Financial Literacy, Empowerment, Change Makers, Education Effects, Social Impact