Institutional drivers of fourth industrial revolution (4IR) entrepreneurship among computer engineering technologists in Nigerian Polytechnics

Abstract

The spread of digital technologies linked to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping how economies function, how innovation occurs, and how new ventures emerge. Tools such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cloud platforms, big data, and the Internet of Things are not only transforming production systems but also redefining the skills expected from graduates. As a result, higher education—particularly polytechnic education with its practical orientation—is under pressure to produce graduates who can combine technical expertise with entrepreneurial thinking. Despite this shift, there is still limited empirical evidence on how institutional conditions within polytechnics influence entrepreneurship among computer engineering technologists, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. This study examines how three key institutional factors—awareness of 4IR technologies, availability of facilities, and institutional support—shape entrepreneurship opportunities in Nigerian polytechnics. A survey of 125 respondents, including students, lecturers, and technologists, was conducted. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, reliability tests, and multiple regression. The results show that respondents generally understand 4IR technologies and recognize their business potential. The regression model indicates that the three institutional factors jointly account for 68.7% of the variation in entrepreneurship outcomes (R² = 0.687). Among them, institutional support has the strongest influence, followed by facilities and awareness. The study extends existing knowledge on digital entrepreneurship by demonstrating that awareness alone is insufficient; supportive institutional environments are essential. It further suggests that improving infrastructure, strengthening support systems, and deepening industry linkages are critical for advancing technology-driven entrepreneurship in Nigerian polytechnics.