Construction of national identity in SNC based English textbooks in Punjab, Pakistan

This study investigates how nationalism and identity are constructed in Pakistan’s English textbooks (Grades 1–10) under the Single National Curriculum. It identifies dominant elements promoting Pakistani nationalism, examines how they shape students as ideal citizens, and explores consistently omitted perspectives. Using Critical Discourse Analysis and Visual Grammar, findings show nationalism framed through religious symbolism, military valor, patriotic pride, and glorified figures like Quaid-e-Azam. Citizenship is depicted as loyal, obedient, and devout, suppressing pluralism. Minority voices, marginalized regions, and war losses are excluded. Binary oppositions, emotive language, and imagery dominate, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive curricular reform.