Contribution of competency-based curricula to entrepreneurship at UNAN-Managua, CUR-Estelí: teacher and student experience

Abstract

The competency-based curriculum places emphasis on the holistic education of students, and for the Estelí Regional University Center of the National Autonomous University of Nicaragua, Managua, it represents a challenge in strengthening educational quality. The objective of the study was to analyze the contribution of the competency-based curriculum to entrepreneurship, considering institutional strategies, the perception of the university community, challenges, and perspectives on entrepreneurial education. The qualitative research used surveys, interviews, and focus groups applied to the center’s director, department heads, faculty, and students, using theoretical sampling. Content analysis was applied in data processing, supplemented by triangulation across subjects and methods. The results indicate that entrepreneurship is fostered through the implementation of the competency-based curriculum, including the incorporation of courses, integrative internships, and projects. Among the main findings, it was identified that the university adequately provides the resources, human talent, ICT, and spaces to promote entrepreneurship. Among the challenges and prospects, the need to promote continuity strategies, establish partnerships and networks, provide faculty training, legalize entrepreneurial ventures, incorporate innovation methodologies in the social sphere, and implement mentoring and financing programs stands out.