Abstract
Background
Given the prevalence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities that firms are taking up today, it may be necessary to ensure that students coming from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are well-prepared to initiate or advance any CSR activities they may encounter in the working world. For this to occur, the Corporate Social Responsibility Orientation of students must be investigated. In Western countries, many studies have already been conducted to investigate students' CSRO, and in some instances, sociodemographic and psychographic factors have been found to influence CSRO. This study investigates the CSRO of students in HEIs in South Africa.
Methods
A quantitative approach was employed, and online surveys were distributed to both undergraduate and postgraduate students at two private HEIs in South Africa. Correlation analysis was undertaken to establish the relationships between sociodemographic factors and CSRO.
Results
The only sociodemographic variable that presented statistically significant differences in the CSRO of students was gender. The hypothesis stating that students’ major field of study influences the CSRO of students was partially accepted as only Business Management presented statistical significance.
Conclusion
These insights can shape educational strategies and as institutions of higher learning encourage CSR, students can be better prepared to positively impact business and society.