DEVELOPING STARTUP THINKING AMONG GENERAL SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS: A PEDAGOGICAL MODEL FOR PROMOTING YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The development of entrepreneurial competencies among school students has become an important educational priority in response to technological advancement, changing labour markets, and the growing demand for innovative problem-solving skills. Traditional school education often emphasizes the acquisition of theoretical knowledge, whereas entrepreneurial activity requires learners to identify real-world problems, generate creative ideas, evaluate opportunities, manage resources, and transform ideas into practical solutions. This article examines the pedagogical foundations of developing startup thinking among general secondary school students and proposes a structured model for promoting youth entrepreneurship. The study employs theoretical analysis, comparative examination of educational approaches, synthesis of relevant scholarly literature, and pedagogical modelling. The proposed model integrates five interrelated components: motivational and value-based development, entrepreneurial knowledge, creative and critical thinking, practical project implementation, and reflective assessment. Particular attention is given to project-based learning, design thinking, collaborative problem-solving, mentorship, and school-based startup initiatives. The article argues that entrepreneurship education should not be limited to teaching business terminology or profit-oriented activities. Instead, it should cultivate initiative, responsibility, adaptability, financial awareness, and the ability to create sustainable solutions to social and economic challenges. The proposed model provides a conceptual foundation for integrating entrepreneurship education into the curriculum and extracurricular activities of general secondary schools.