Universities told to nurture graduates

Universities aren't nurturing the talents of business-minded graduates, one expert has warned.

Higher-education institutions should not be taking the traditional approach to entrepreneurship, claimed Ian Robertson, Chief Executive of the National Council for Graduate Entrepreneurship (NCGE).

Mr Robertson noted that the style of teaching used by business schools can turn graduates off the world of business.

He suggested universities should be looking at the skills and behaviour of students, instead of teaching undergraduates about 'business management focus and the importance of the business plan.'

Mr Robertson's comments follow a survey by NCGE published in November 2007.

It stated that 11% of students are broadening their skills by becoming involved in enterprise and entrepreneurship activities.

'There will be some [graduates] who will go on to set up their own businesses. That model is far more suited to universities and attractive to a much broader range of graduates,' Mr Robertson said.