TRANSFORMING ECONOMIC EDUCATION: BUILDING SUSTAINABLE AND DIGITAL ENTREPRENEURS

Abstract

The convergence of digital technology, sustainability imperatives, and the creative economy necessitates a fundamental transformation in economic education. This paper examines the urgent need to integrate digitalization and sustainability into entrepreneurship education to better prepare future entrepreneurs for a dynamic global economy. Despite the growing relevance of sustainability and digital competencies, few educational frameworks have adequately synthesized these dimensions within economic education. This study employs a narrative literature review method, systematically analyzing recent empirical studies and theoretical models published between 2015 and 2025. Drawing upon Sustainable Entrepreneurship Theory, Transformative Learning Theory, and the Digital Competence Framework, the study offers a solid conceptual basis for its integrated approach. The findings reveal that technology-enabled learning platforms enhance entrepreneurial skills by offering practical, interactive experiences, while sustainability-focused curricula foster critical thinking and future-oriented mindsets. Programs such as Indonesia's Digital Entrepreneurship Academy (DEA) and Singapore’s Ngee Ann Polytechnic Green Innovation elective exemplify successful models in bridging digital and sustainability gaps in entrepreneurship education. The novelty of this paper lies in its integrated framework that combines digital competence, transformative learning, and sustainable entrepreneurship theories to inform curriculum development strategies. The results underscore the necessity of embedding cloud platforms, AI tools, and interdisciplinary sustainability projects into economic education for cultivating resilient, socially responsible innovators. In conclusion, the study highlights that transforming economic education through digitalization and sustainability integration is critical to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and building a future-ready entrepreneurial generation. Educational institutions must reform curricula and invest in capacity-building initiatives to meet the evolving demands of global economic ecosystems.