THE IMPACT OF PROJECT-BASED AND STARTUP-ORIENTED LEARNING ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENTREPRENEURIAL COMPETENCIES AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

This study investigates the impact of project-based learning (PBL) and startup-oriented pedagogy on the development of entrepreneurial competencies among university students. In the context of rapid economic transformation and increasing demand for innovation-driven skills, higher education institutions are required to move beyond traditional teaching methods and adopt experiential learning approaches. The research employs a mixed-methods design, combining quantitative analysis of competency development with qualitative insights from student reflections and instructor observations. The findings indicate that students exposed to PBL and startup-oriented learning demonstrate significantly higher levels of initiative, risk assessment ability, creativity, and problem-solving skills compared to those in traditional learning environments. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on entrepreneurship education by providing empirical evidence from an emerging economy context and offering pedagogical recommendations for curriculum design.