Navigating Role Conflict: The Influence of Students' Entrepreneurial Identity on Academic Performance in Two Ghanaian Universities

There is a significant lack of consensus regarding the impact of students’ entrepreneurship engagement on academic performance, despite the growing interest in entrepreneurship among university students and its potential benefits for financial independence and societal innovation. As some scholars suggest that entrepreneurial engagement could enhance skills such as time management and practical application of knowledge, others indicate that the demands of running a business may lead to academic neglect, stress, and lower academic performance. This concern influenced the purpose of this study, which sought to determine the influence of entrepreneurship activities on the academic performance of students at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and Akenten Appiah Menkah University of Skills Training and Entrepreneural Development (AAMUSTED) in KUMASI, Ghana and factors that influence entrepreneurship intention among these university students. In terms of methodology, this study employed a cross-sectional research design and via the stratified sampling method, a sample of 374 students was surveyed with self-administered questionnaire acting as the primary data collection tool. With regard to the findings, this study found that students who engaged in entrepreneurship in entrepreneurship performed significantly better than those who were not engaged (Mean = 4.91, 95% CI = 2.64 – 7.18, P < 0.001), and that feasibility and perceived behavioural control, attitude, and subjective norms are significant factors that determine entrepreneurial intention among university students. This study therefore, concludes that fostering entrepreneurial competence, supportive networks, and a positive mindset among students not only strengthens their intention to become entrepreneurs but can also enhance their academic and personal growth. Therefore, it is recommended that universities encourage students to participate in entrepreneurship programs, business clubs, and innovation hubs that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.