Political Education and Civic Engagement in Pakistan: A Critical Analysis of Curriculum, Pedagogy, and Youth Participation

The following study analytically discusses political literacy, citizenship and youth participation in the format of Pakistan education system. In this paper, the role of political education through the delivered and taught curricula in secondary and higher learning institutions is discussed. Examining curricular content, teaching approaches, and political learning environment within and through institutions, the research maps areas of weakness in the development of civility, political awareness and education, and democratic citizenship engagement. Furthermore, it explores how extra curriculum activities, Youth Structuring Organizations and social networking sites influence the political dispositions of the youths of Pakistan. From interviews conducted with various educators, policymakers, as well as on the content analysis of the textbooks and teaching materials, the study uncovers a subject-.object relationship which situates state democracy and the youth’s emancipative democracy in conversation. On this premise, the study postulates that contrary to the belief that formal education , youth has few avenues to exercise critical political engagement, information channels including activism, social networks, and civil society structures are central in fostering political participation among youths. Finally, this analysis presents proposals for enhancing the causes of political education to enhance youth capabilities and agency to participate effectively in Pakistani politics and other related activities.