From Skill Development to Life Satisfaction: The Role of Institutional Support and Entrepreneurship among Tribal Youth in South India

Abstract

The research paper analyzes a connection between the skill building, institutional support, entrepreneurship performance, and life satisfaction of tribal youths in Gudalur Taluk, Tamil Nadu. The analysis is based on the Human Capital Theory and Capability Approach to assess how learning of skills is converted into economical participation and general well-being in a marginalized scenario. A quantitative research design was followed whereby primary data were gathered on 100 tribal youth using a structured questionnaire. The data were interpreted with the help of the reliability analysis, exploratory factor analysis, correlation, regression and mediation.

These results show that the impact of skill acquisition on achieving entrepreneurial success is very positive though, it necessitates institutional support systems, such as government and non-governmental organizations. The relationship between skill development and entrepreneurial outcomes is mediated by institutional support to some extent. Moreover, the effect of entrepreneurial outcomes on life satisfaction is high in a positive way indicating the relevance of economic involvement in enhancing well-being. The paper highlights the importance of combined institutional ecosystems towards sustainable development.