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The countries of the Middle East and North Africa stand at a crossroads. The problems are many, but with a youthful population brimming with potential and a growing recognition of the importance of innovation, the region has an opportunity to catch up with the rest of the world in terms of technological advancement. Expanding enterprise, or entrepreneurship, education could be the key to unlocking this potential — by spurring sustainable businesses, reducing dependence on government support and promoting political and social stability through job creation.
For decades, the Arab countries of MENA and Iran have grappled with high unemployment rates, particularly among young people. According to the International Labour Organization, youth unemployment in the region remains among the highest globally. Many attribute the problem to education systems that often prioritize rote learning over critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation. Entrepreneurship education, which teaches individuals how to identify opportunities, manage risks and create value, offers a potential solution to these challenges.
By introducing entrepreneurship education to schools, universities and vocational training programs, MENA countries can empower their youth to think beyond conventional career paths. Instead of viewing employment solely as a search for government jobs or positions in large corporations, young people can be inspired to create their own ventures. Such a shift is crucial in a region where the public sector is often overstaffed and private sector opportunities remain limited.
One of the most notable benefits of entrepreneurship education is its potential to drive innovation, particularly in technology. The global economy is increasingly digital and regions that fail to adapt run the risk of being left behind. The sudden popularity of DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence chatbot reportedly made at a fraction of the cost of its rivals, not only raises questions about the future of America’s AI dominance, it also shows that by equipping students with the tools to innovate, governments anywhere can nurture homegrown startups that address local challenges while competing on the global stage.
By introducing entrepreneurship education, MENA countries can empower their youth to think beyond conventional career paths
Arnab Neil Sengupta
To be sure, countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are already witnessing the emergence of tech hubs, but the ripple effect can only spread further with widespread entrepreneurial training. A culture of entrepreneurship, once established, can lead to the creation of sustainable and profitable businesses. Research shows that entrepreneurs with formal training are more likely to succeed than their untrained counterparts. They are better equipped to develop robust business plans, understand market dynamics and adapt to challenges.
In a region where business failure rates are often high, such education can reduce the likelihood of failed ventures, which will ensure that investments of time and resources result in positive outcomes.
Another critical advantage of entrepreneurship education is its ability to reduce dependence on government support. For decades, many MENA economies have relied on state subsidies, public sector employment and energy revenues to sustain their populations. However, these models are looking increasingly precarious, particularly in the face of fluctuating oil and gas prices, growing fiscal pressures and the widespread adoption of green energy.
By cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset, governments can encourage individuals to become self-reliant, which in turn can create a more dynamic and robust economy. In any case, the positive impacts of entrepreneurship extend far beyond the economy. Job creation is one of the most desirable outcomes of entrepreneurial activity and, in a region with a burgeoning youth population, is a necessity.
Startups and small businesses often serve as generators of employment, providing opportunities for young people to earn a living, gain experience and build their futures. Once young men and women find meaningful employment, they will contribute to economic growth and social stability, reducing the risk of political radicalization and unrest caused by unemployment and disillusionment.
Another critical advantage of entrepreneurship education is its ability to reduce dependence on government support
Arnab Neil Sengupta
Countries in the MENA region can look to successful models from around the world for inspiration. For example, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries have long integrated entrepreneurship education into their curricula, creating a culture of innovation that has given rise to global tech giants. In Asia, countries like Singapore and South Korea have embraced entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic development, putting in place specific policies and programs to support aspiring entrepreneurs.
For MENA countries, implementing entrepreneurship education requires a comprehensive approach. Governments must prioritize curriculum reform, ensuring that entrepreneurship is a core component of education systems that can produce students capable of building AI web tools that can handle tasks such as math, coding and natural language reasoning. Partnerships with private sector entities can also play a vital role, providing mentorship opportunities, internships and exposure for students to the real world of setbacks, disappointments and breakthroughs.
Experience shows that creating an ecosystem that supports startups — through access to funding, incubators and regulatory frameworks — is essential for translating education into action. Policymakers must also address cultural and societal barriers that may hinder entrepreneurship. In many parts of MENA, as in other parts of Asia, there is a preference for stable, traditional career paths and entrepreneurial risk-taking is often discouraged. Changing these perceptions requires not only education but also visible success stories that can inspire others to follow suit. Highlighting Arab entrepreneurs who have succeeded against the odds can shift mindsets and create a more supportive environment for innovation.
The global economy is moving at breakneck speed, driven by technological advancements, cross-border investments and changing mindsets. For MENA states to remain competitive and harness the potential of their youth, they must embrace entrepreneurship education as a strategic priority. This is not just about creating businesses, it is about building a future where innovation, self-reliance and opportunity — not crises, conflicts and chaos — define the region.
Looking ahead, expanding entrepreneurship education across MENA is far more than an economic imperative — it is a societal one. By equipping the next generation with the skills and mindset to innovate, governments of the region can chart a path toward sustainable growth, lower unemployment and greater stability. Entrepreneurship education offers a promising tool to leapfrog the competition and unlock the potential of the MENA region’s young demographic.
- Arnab Neil Sengupta is a senior editor at Arab News. X: @arnabnsg