The nexus of artificial intelligence (AI) and entrepreneurship in higher education skills development: A review

Abstract

The intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and entrepreneurship in higher education presents a transformative opportunity to address South Africa’s persistent unemployment crisis while equipping students with the critical digital competencies they need. This review explored how AI-driven tools and pedagogies enhance entrepreneurship education, particularly in rural and resource-constrained institutions. Grounded in the thinking economy model, which prioritizes intellectual capital, innovation, and adaptability, this paper synthesized the theoretical literature. The findings indicate that adaptive learning platforms, business simulations, and case-based methodologies cultivate critical thinking, market analysis, and product innovation skills. Ethical concerns, including algorithmic bias and data privacy, underscore the need for responsible integration of AI. Through interdisciplinary curriculum reform, capacity building, and alignment with national digital transformation agendas, higher education institutions can develop socially accountable, innovation-oriented graduates capable of driving inclusive growth in the AI era.