International Journal of Social Sciences Bulletin
International Journal of Social Sciences Bulletin {IJSSB} ISSN (E) 3007-1917 (P) 3007-1909, is a multidisciplinary, open-access, and quarterly journal. The IJSSB is published by the Institute for Excellence in Education and Research (IEER), duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under registration number 0224595. The IJSSB is committed to completing the double-blind peer-review process within one month and informing the author(s) accordingly. IJSSB aims at wide circulation and visibility in social sciences. IJSSB upholds rigorous standards of excellence. The respective authors hold copyrights of all content published in the journal.
Institute for Excellence in Education & Research
AN EVALUATIVE STUDY OF READING SKILLS OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS AT THE SECONDARY LEVEL
Reading comprehension is an essential part of learning the language and the required English textbook is the main teaching tool for Pakistani secondary school learners. The present investigation evaluates the reading skills of English language learners at the secondary level and English textbook in developing students' reading comprehension and scrutinized the relationship between the textbook's content, structure, and complexity and reading skills development. The objectives of the study are (1) to investigate the role of English textbook in developing reading comprehension at the secondary level and (2) to analyze the content, structure, and complexity of the English textbook in relation to reading skills development. A descriptive, quantitative research design was used. A structured questionnaire and a reading comprehension achievement test were used to gather data from 200 students of government secondary schools using convenience sampling. While the Chi-square test was utilized to ascertain the relationship between textbook features and students' reading comprehension achievement, descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, and mean scores, were employed to examine students' perceptions. The results showed that students generally thought the English textbook was reasonably efficient in helping them strengthen their reading comprehension skills, especially when it came to comprehending main ideas, recognizing textual nuances, expanding their vocabulary, and increasing their enthusiasm to read. However, the majority of children showed poor to mediocre reading comprehension on the achievement test, indicating inadequate development of higher-order reading skills. The study comes to the conclusion that strengthening the structure, content, and instructional activities of textbooks can improve students' reading comprehension and facilitate more successful secondary English language learning.
English language learners, Secondary schools, English textbook, reading comprehension, ESL
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE READINESS, RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP, AND WORKFORCE AGILITY: EVIDENCE FROM PAKISTAN'S KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping organizational processes, work requirements, and workforce capabilities in Pakistan's knowledge economy. This study examines the relationship between AI readiness and workforce agility and tests the moderating role of responsible leadership. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was used with an illustrative sample of 384 valid responses from knowledge-intensive organizations in Pakistan. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and moderation analysis. AI readiness significantly predicted workforce agility (β = .36, p < .001), while responsible leadership showed a stronger positive effect (β = .41, p < .001). All four AI-readiness dimensions—technological, human/employee, organizational, and strategy/governance readiness—were significant predictors, with human/employee readiness showing the strongest effect (β = .28, p < .001). Responsible leadership also strengthened the AI-readiness–workforce-agility relationship (β = .15, p < .001). The findings indicate that AI transformation requires more than technology investment; organizations must simultaneously develop employee capabilities, organizational support, responsible leadership, and governance. The study extends Dynamic Capabilities Theory by positioning AI readiness as an organizational capability and responsible leadership as a contextual mechanism that facilitates its translation into workforce agility.
Artificial intelligence readiness; responsible leadership; workforce agility; Dynamic Capabilities Theory; knowledge economy; Pakistan
STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS TEACHERS’ USE OF CODE-SWITCHING IN THE LEARNING PROCESS AT THE UNIVERSITY LEVEL IN QUETTA
This study investigates the use of code-switching in university classrooms in Quetta, focusing on students’ attitudes, its role in the learning process, and its relationship with academic performance. A quantitative research design was adopted to ensure objective measurement of the variables. Data were collected from 378 undergraduate students using a structured questionnaire. The instrument was designed to measure the frequency of teachers’ code-switching, students’ perceptions, and its impact on comprehension and classroom engagement. The collected data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, and regression techniques. The findings reveal that code-switching is commonly practiced by teachers as a supportive instructional strategy. Students expressed generally positive attitudes toward its use, particularly in understanding difficult concepts and maintaining classroom interaction. The mean scores indicate a moderate to high level of agreement regarding its usefulness in the learning process. However, the regression analysis shows a weak relationship between code-switching and academic performance (R² = 0.08), suggesting that while it facilitates understanding, it does not strongly predict students’ academic achievement. The study concludes that code-switching can be beneficial when used appropriately and in moderation. Overuse, however, may reduce students’ exposure to the target language and limit language development. It is recommended that teachers apply code-switching strategically to support learning without compromising language proficiency. Further research is suggested to explore additional factors affecting academic performance in bilingual classroom contexts
Code-switching, Multilingual, Students’ Attitudes, Classroom, Pedagogical Strategies
SEMANTIC DEVIATIONS IN “THE FLATS ROAD” BY ALICE MUNRO: A STYLISTIC STUDY
This study attempts to examine the short story “The Flats Road” by Alice Munro from the lens of stylistics. The short story is laden with semantic deviations as it consists of multifarious stylistic choices that adds in the emotional intensity of the story. The Flats Road, in the short story, is neither a metropolitan nor a rural area. The war-horrified people of the town showcase the symptoms of subjugation. All these themes are established by author’s crafty usage of semantic deviations and stylistic devices. The study in hand is descriptive qualitative. Analytical portion of the study is based on the theoretical positions of Leech and Short (1981) from their famous work “Style in Fiction”. The study is significant in a way that its findings will assist the readers in understanding the mechanics of language and making meaningful interpretation of fictional texts. This study will aid in augmenting the linguistic creativity and language practice. The study is instrumental in highlighting the functions of rhetoric and compositional techniques.
Alice Munro, The Flats Road, Semantic Deviation, Stylistic Devices, Style in Fiction
DOING PUKHTU: INSTITUTIONS AND NORMS OF PUKHTUNWALI IN PUKHTUN FOLKTALES
This paper explores the concept of Doing Pukhtu—abiding by the norms, standards, and institutions of Pukhtunwali—through a textual analysis of Pukhtun folktales. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this study examines prominent folktale collections by Aisha Ahmed, W.L. Heston and Mumtaz Nasir, and Charles Swynnerton to understand how cultural codes such as melmastia (hospitality), nanawati (unconditional surrender), and badal (exchange or revenge) are represented and perpetuated. Furthermore, the research investigates the depiction of traditional institutions, specifically the hujra (guest house) and jirga (tribal council), within these narratives. By treating Pukhtunwali as a floating signifier, the study argues that these cultural codes are not static dogma but rather dynamic, context-dependent norms that adapt to various socio-economic conditions. Finally, the paper discusses the complex interplay between Islamic principles and tribal traditions as depicted in the tales, ultimately challenging stereotypes of the Pukhtun as inherently vindictive by highlighting themes of mercy, generosity, and communal harmony.
Pukhtunwali, folktales, Jirga, Hujra, Badal, floating signifier, ethnic identity
IMPACT OF DIGITAL EQUITY ON TECHNO-LITERACY AMONG MARGINALIZED STUDENTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF SINDH, PAKISTAN FOR INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION
Digital equity is a critical prerequisite for fostering techno-literacy and achieving inclusive and sustainable education, particularly among marginalized students in developing regions. This study examines the impact of digital equity on techno-literacy among marginalized students enrolled in public schools in Sindh, Pakistan. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study collected quantitative and qualitative data from a sample of 150 students in public schools in Larkana District. Quantitative findings revealed a moderate level of basic digital operational skills among students; however, substantial deficiencies were observed in advanced digital competencies, including problem-solving and critical technology use. Pearson's correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between digital equity and techno-literacy (r = 0.642, p < 0.01), suggesting that improved access to digital resources, connectivity, and learning opportunities is associated with higher levels of techno-literacy. Qualitative thematic analysis further identified inadequate digital infrastructure, limited internet access, insufficient technological resources, and language barriers as major obstacles to digital inclusion. The study concludes that strengthening digital equity through investments in solar-powered digital infrastructure, localized digital learning resources, and context-sensitive pedagogical frameworks can significantly enhance techno-literacy among marginalized learners, thereby promoting equitable, inclusive, and sustainable educational outcomes in Sindh, Pakistan.
Digital Equity, Techno-Literacy, Marginalized Students, Inclusive Education, Sustainable Education
BRICS EXPANSION AND THE EMERGING MULTIPOLAR WORLD ORDER: PROBLEMS, CHALLENGES AND FUTURE PROSPECTS
The growth of the BRICS is a major step towards the transformation of international politics and the establishment of a multipolar world order. The original BRICS group was formed to include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the five largest economies in the world, and has since grown to include other key economies, bringing its demographic, economic, energy and geopolitical heft. This growth has reinforced its international interests, and its advocacy for reform of international institutions, particularly from the Global South perspective. However, it has also created significant challenges in terms of institutional unity, different national agendas, economic inequality, geopolitical competition, decision-making and no shared strategic goals. The key contradiction is the fact that BRICS is a joint bloc of emerging powers while at the same time being a competitive bloc of states seeking independent national interests. This article will explore the issues with BRICS expansion and its impact on a new multipolar world order. It doesn't suggest that BRICS should be seen only as a counterbalance of the West or only as a short-term alternative to the current international system. Instead, it is a flexible alliance that allows for newly emerging and nascent powers to strive for autonomy, representation and influence in global governance. Whether it will have a future impact will rely on the ability of its members to transform their collective economic and demographic clout into lasting cooperation in institutions. Three scenarios are examined: Consolidated multipolar cooperation, Continued loose institutional coordination and fragmentation due to internal contradictions.
BRICS, BRICS Expansion, Multipolarity, Global South, International Order, Global Governance, Emerging Powers, Liberal International Order
STRENGTHENING THE BINDING FORCE OF INTERNATIONAL LAW IN THE 21ST CENTURY
This article examines the causes of low enforceability of international law and explores ways to strengthen its binding force. It argues that the absence of a central sovereign authority, the principle of state sovereignty, and weak enforcement mechanisms limit the effectiveness of international legal obligations. The role of power politics, selective application of sanctions, and ambiguity in legal norms further weaken compliance. Recent state practice, including actions by the Trump administration toward the ICC, UNRWA, and multilateral agreements, illustrates these dilemmas in contemporary international relations. The article suggests that clearer treaty design, domestic incorporation, consistent enforcement, and reputational costs can enhance compliance. Capacity building and regional integration are also identified as key tools to improve implementation. It concludes that while coercion remains limited, international law gains binding force when states perceive adherence as beneficial to stability and cooperation. Ultimately, maintaining the authority of international law requires balancing respect for sovereignty with stronger accountability and political will.
INTRA-PARTY DEMOCRACY AND POLITICAL PARTY INSTITUTIONALIZATION IN PAKISTAN: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MAJOR POLITICAL PARTIES (2008–2025)
Political parties are central to democratic governance because they provide mechanisms for political representation, leadership recruitment, policy formulation, and citizen participation. In Pakistan, however, the development of democratic political institutions has been accompanied by persistent concerns regarding weak intra-party democracy, centralized leadership, elite dominance, and limited participation of ordinary party members in organizational decision-making. This study examines the relationship between intra-party democracy and political party institutionalization in Pakistan through a comparative analysis of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) during the period 2008–2025. The study employs a qualitative comparative research design based on the analysis of party constitutions, intra-party election practices, official party documents, Election Commission of Pakistan materials, scholarly literature, and other relevant secondary sources. The analysis focuses on leadership selection, internal party elections, candidate selection, member participation, policy-making, organizational autonomy, and leadership succession. The study finds that although all three parties maintain formal organizational structures and mechanisms for internal elections, decision-making remains substantially influenced by centralized leadership and established political elites. The extent and form of intra-party democracy vary across the three parties, but the persistence of personalized leadership limits organizational autonomy and constrains deeper institutionalization. The study contributes to the literature by linking intra-party democratic practices with political party institutionalization and demonstrating how leadership centralization and elite dominance shape the organizational development of major political parties in Pakistan. It argues that strengthening meaningful internal participation, competitive leadership selection, transparency, and institutional autonomy is essential for improving democratic consolidation in Pakistan.
Intra-party democracy; political party institutionalization; political leadership; Pakistan; PPP; PML-N; PTI; party organization; democratic governance
“THE EFFECT OF ENVIRONMENTAL LITERACY ON SELF EFFICACY”
This study allows at how environmental knowledge impresses the confidence of middle school students in Lahore, Pakistan. It stretches to decide the impact of erudition about the environment on students' belief in their own abilities, annexing to the research on environmental education and how it impacts students' mental growth. It's important to cultivate young students to number in a way that aids the environment, so we hypodermic to appear at how knowledge about the environment impresses their confidence in grasping care of it in Lahore's middle schools. Knowing this connection can aid class creators, teachers, and decision-makers confect better environmental education programs. These programs can indoctrinate students more about the environment and also backup them scent more capable of aiding covered it. For this, a quantitative research approach is given along with the causal comparative research method. The tool employed was a questionnaire to analyze environmental literacy’s effect in grasping actions. The tool is valid in terms of content, and its reliability is consistent within itself. This was agreed employing Cronbach’s alpha, which offered a score of 0.92. The population selected were middle school students and convenient sampling technique was used for data collection. The sample chosen from the population were students from American Lycetuff DNK School System in Lahore, Pakistan. The results of the study were found by doing analysis from software SPSS version 15.0. Two types of analysis were done on the collected data. Descriptive analysis had given the results regarding mean and standard deviation of different categories of the instrument. Inferential analysis was used to test the hypothesis of the study. The findings revealed a positive relationship between environmental literacy and students’ self-efficacy, indicating that students with higher levels of environmental knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and responsible environmental behaviors tend to possess greater confidence in their ability to address environmental challenges and make environmentally responsible decisions.
Environmental Literacy, Self-Efficacy, Middle School Students, Environmental Education, Lahore, Pakistan
ASSESSMENT OF RESIDENTIAL SATISFACTION IN APARTMENT BUILDINGS: A LAHORE PERSPECTIVE
Investigating residential satisfaction in apartment buildings was the goal of this project. It includes research of the variables affecting a sample of individuals' residential satisfaction in a selected case study area that is Labor colony, Dhalla flats and Askari 11 apartments in Lahore. By concentrating on factors like the housing system, safety and security, privacy, social contact and relationships and the physical characteristics of construction materials, the context is supplied. Contrary to popular belief, the methodological rationale of the thesis is that it is necessary to take into account both the apartment building and environment to accurately estimate resident satisfaction. The main component of the research technique is the distribution of a survey questionnaire to 250 participants who were randomly chosen from three selected areas (apartments). There were inquiries about the apartment, the structure, and the surroundings. The results showed widespread satisfaction. Reliability analysis was performed to find out the factors responsible for resident satisfaction. Whereas, chi-square test was used to compare the opinion of residents in different areas of apartments buildings in Lahore. However, the scientific study should not stop at this level of conclusion and should instead focus more on the negative facts that point out the design issues that planners and architects should concentrate on to create places and the built environment that will satisfy people.
Apartments, Lahore, Design, Resident Satisfaction
GENDER, PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE, AND INSTITUTIONAL CONTEXT IN RELATION TO TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP PRACTICES
This exploratory study of the prevalence, dimensions and determinants of Transformational Leadership (TL) was conducted in public and private sector schools of Karachi, Pakistan. The study used a cross-sectional survey design, collecting and utilizing a set (N=272) of teachers’ perceptions as its primary data source. The data indicated that transformational leadership was practiced moderately and unevenly, with Individualized Consideration emerging as the most prominent dimension, while High Performance Expectations, Collaborative Goal Setting, and Modelling are practiced at a moderate level. In contrast, Intellectual Stimulation and Idealized Influence recorded the lowest mean scores, indicating weaker visionary and inspirational leadership among principals. This pattern suggested a greater reliance on relational and task-focused leadership than on visionary and change-oriented practices. The gender of the Principal made a major difference in the leadership perceptions suggesting that leadership is embedded in the gendered culture of organizations, however, the gender of the teacher did not have any significant effects. The most influential structural factor which influenced transformational leadership was the school type, private versus public, whereas principal experience showed the strongest association with perceived transformational leadership. The results highlight the need for structural reform, context-sensitive leadership development, and gender-responsive policies to allow transformational leadership to flourish in Pakistani schools.
Transformational leadership; Principal Leadership Questionnaire (PLQ); School principals; Gender; Teachers' perceptions; Public and private schools
GARMENT SILHOUETTE AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH SEAM AND STITCH SELECTION: A TIME COST EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS OF FIVE FEMALE DRESS SILHOUETTES
Garment silhouette exerts a defining influence on fit, aesthetics, and manufacturability, while seam and stitch selection governs construction efficiency, durability, and cost. This study examines the relationship between five female garment silhouettes—Ballgown, Frock, Pencil, T-shirt, and Shift—and the seam and stitch combinations used in their construction, quantifying the resulting impact on production time and cost. Digital patterns were developed in Gerber AccuMark and used to guide industrial-machine construction; production time was measured using Standard Minute Value (SMV) analysis, and material and labor costs were tracked for each silhouette. Plain, French, overlock, and flat-felled seams were combined with lockstitch, chain stitch, overlock stitch, and zigzag stitch techniques, each selected for structural and aesthetic compatibility with the target design. Results show that simple silhouettes (T-shirt, Shift) required only 1.5–2 hours of construction and achieved 20–25% cost reductions relative to more complex garments, whereas Ballgown and Frock silhouettes, which rely on gathered and princess seams, required 4–6 hours and incurred 10–30% higher production costs. The Pencil silhouette occupied an intermediate position, balancing lapped-seam precision with moderate time and cost. These findings indicate that strategic seam and stitch selection—rather than fabric or silhouette complexity alone is a primary lever for optimizing garment-production efficiency, with direct implications for mass-market and made-to-order manufacturing strategies.
garment silhouette; seam type; stitch type; construction time; cost efficiency; apparel manufacturing
THE RIGHT TO FAIR TRIAL IN CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS AND THE UNITED KINGDOM COURTS: LESSONS FROM THE PANDEMIC
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted how the United Kingdom criminal justice system operates, necessitating a balance between the right to a fair trial and the need to protect public health. The study critically assesses the effect of the pandemic-induced changes to criminal procedures on criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom, focusing on the actual application of the guarantees of a fair trial in the United Kingdom's domestic law and under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights. It reviews the historical and legal origins of the right to a fair trial, the emergency legislation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the transformation of the operation of the criminal courts during the pandemic through remote hearings, hybrid processes, and the introduction of digital case management. It also considers the main problems which have emerged from these reforms: the difficulty for effective defendant participation, the access and availability to lawyers, open justice, equality of arms, examination of the witnesses, and the significant surge in the backlog of cases in the Crown Court – which reached more than 60,000 cases during the pandemic period. The research also includes an analysis of judicial reaction, drawing on key UK case law and guidance, which show that, in the face of unprecedented operational challenges, courts have consistently treated procedural fairness as a non-derogable constitutional principle. The results showed that digital technologies contributed to judicial continuity and resilience, but were not possible to completely replace the procedural protections afforded by traditional in-person courtroom interactions in more complex criminal cases. The paper suggests that the next generation of criminal justice reform should include technological advances, clear statutory protections, increased court capacity and an all-encompassing framework for emergency situations to safeguard constitutional rights in the event of a future national emergency. Lessons from the pandemic will be very relevant to building a more resilient, accessible and rights-based criminal justice system in the United Kingdom.
Right to fair trial; Criminal proceedings; United Kingdom; COVID-19 pandemic; Article 6 ECHR; Remote hearings; Criminal justice reform
MODERATION EFFECTS OF MATERNAL GUILT ON WORK-FAMILY CONFLICT AND JOB INVOLVEMENT AMONG WORKING MOTHERS OF TODDLERS
Research has shown that work-family conflict and maternal guilt have an impact on the job involvement of a mother. This study examined the relationship between work-family conflict, maternal guilt and job involvement among working mothers of toddlers. Data was obtained from 150 nurses working in five different departments of private hospitals who had 1 to 2 children from which any one was toddler (1= 87, 2= 63) aged 28-35 (M= 30.27, SD= 2.22) using a correlation research design and non-probability purposive sampling technique. Hayes Process Model for Moderation was used to analyze the data. Findings revealed maternal guilt plays a moderating role between family to work conflict and job involvement. The overall model approached significance, F (3,146) =2.32, p=0.78, R2 =0.046, indicating family to work conflict as a significant negative predictor of job involvement (B = –0.96, SE = 0.41, p = .020, 95% CI [–1.77, –0.16]), suggesting that greater interference from family into work is associated with lower levels of job involvement. However, the overall model was not statistically significant, F (3, 146) = 0.832, p = .479, R² = .017, indicating that the predictors (work to family conflict, maternal guilt, and their interaction) together did not explain a significant amount of variance in job involvement. The interaction effect between work to family conflict and maternal guilt was also not significant, B = 0.005, p = .426, 95% CI [–0.007, 0.016], suggesting that maternal guilt did not significantly moderate the relationship between work to family conflict and job involvement. Additionally, the main effects of work to family conflict (B = –0.36, p = .266) and maternal guilt (B = –0.10, p = .465) were also not statistically significant. Future studies are needed to examine the effect of maternal guilt on mothers of toddlers working in different professions.
work-family conflict, maternal guilt, job involvement, working mothers of toddlers, nurses
BEYOND HUMAN EXCEPTIONALISM: POSTHUMANISM AND MAGICAL REALISM IN ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF SOLITUDE
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez has been extensively examined as a work of magical realism, and for its depiction of Latin American history and memory, political violence, cultural identity. But this novel's questioning of humanistic perceptions of life is relatively under-exploited. This article takes a posthumanist approach to García Márquez's story, looking at how it undermines the idea of human exceptionalism by its depictions of human and non-human relationships. The analysis of One Hundred Years of Solitude is based on critical posthumanist theories of Rosi Braidotti, Donna Haraway, N. Katherine Hayles, Cary Wolfe, Bruno Latour and Karen Barad which propose a relational ontology where human beings cohabit with animals, natural forces, material objects, ghosts, and other agents of agency. García Márquez's use of the magical realist approach to writing suggests that reality and fantasy, human and nonhuman, life and death, and subject and object are not mutually exclusive. In the novel, Macondo is described as a network of ecological and material relations, casting light on the fallacy of anthropocentric assumptions as well as on current discussions about posthumanism with its focus on agency, embodiment and interdependence. This article attempts to analyze magical realism as a more than narrative technique, as a philosophical mode which poses questions to human dominance and imagines other modes of being. The study brings a contribution to García Márquez scholarship: the re-positioning of One Hundred Years of Solitude in the current discussions on posthumanism and more than human world.
Anthropocentrism, Gabriel García Márquez, Human exceptionalism, Magical realism, Nonhuman agency, One Hundred Years of Solitude, Posthumanism
ENHANCING FOUNDATIONAL NUMERACY THROUGH THE CONCRETE–PICTORIAL–ABSTRACT (CPA) APPROACH: EVIDENCE FROM A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY IN PAKISTANI PRIMARY SCHOOLS
Foundational numeracy skills are essential for children to build on for a successful future in school and life. In Pakistan, many primary school-age children struggle in school because of the teaching methods that focus on rote learning, as opposed to the teaching methods that focus on understanding. This study focuses on the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract model (C-P-A) and attempts to articulate the real understanding of foundational numeracy skills of primary school children in Pakistan. A quasi-experimental research design was used and comprised an experimental group that was taught mathematics using the C-P-A model and a control group that was taught mathematics using the conventional model of teaching. Data were obtained using a pre-test and post-test numeracy achievement assessments. The results are anticipated to show a noteworthy difference in number sense, reasoning, and problem-solving skills of students taught using the C-P-A model of teaching as opposed to students taught using the conventional model of teaching. The study attempts to show the importance of teaching young children mathematics using a combination of real learning materials, pictures and drawings, and forms of mathematics that they can symbolize. The study attempts to improve early mathematics teaching in primary schools of Pakistan.
Foundational Numeracy, Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) Approach, Primary Mathematics Education, Quasi-Experimental Study, Mathematics Achievement, Early Grade Learning, Pakistani Primary Schools
WOMEN'S RIGHTS IN PAKISTAN: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF LEGAL PROTECTION AND IMPLEMENTATION
Women rights have become a critical issue in Pakistan despite the presence of constitutional guarantees and statutory protections. Growing issues like gender discrimination, domestic violence, rape, assault, workplace harassment, acid attacks and limited access to the education remain obstruct to the accomplishment of these rights. This study examines critically the effectiveness of legal mechanisms for the protection of women and to point the gap between law and its implementation. A doctrinal approach is adopted, analyzing constitutional provisions including Article 25 (equality before law) together with statutory laws re Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace (2010). The role of both governmental and non-governmental organizations in spreading awareness about these legal protections is also looked at in this study, along with the real difficulties women face when trying to access justice or get legal remedies. The leading case, Benazir Bhutto v Federation of Pakistan, is further considered to assess judicial interpretation. The findings reflect that although a comprehensive legal framework exists, weak enforcement, lack of awareness and socio-cultural hurdles significantly limits its efficiency. The research also notes that deeply rooted social attitudes and traditional norms often stop women from coming forward and seeking legal help, which further reduces the effectiveness of existing laws. This study suggests strengthening implementation mechanisms, providing legal awareness and ensuring accountability of institutions. In summary, while Pakistan's legal system lays out a solid foundation for women rights, practical enforcement is crucial to achieve real equality and empowerment.
Women's Rights, Gender Equality, Article 25, Legal Protection, Implementation Challenges, Pakistan
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION POLICIES AND CLASSROOM IMPLEMENTATION IN PAKISTAN AND MALAYSIA
The study adopts a comparative qualitative design, drawing on policy analysis and classroom-level observations. The Data for this study will be collected through national policy and strategy documents, peer-reviewed journal articles and systematic reviews, technical reports and country profiles from international agencies, and, credible working papers and doctoral theses that offer contextual or implementation details of both countries. This comparative approach will help us to understand how policies are integrated and adapted in our classrooms. As this is an ongoing study, the anticipated results of this research are expected to highlight their common problems and promising approaches that can shape future reforms and strengthen inclusive education frameworks in Pakistan and Malaysia.Inclusive education, which seeks to provide equitable learning opportunities to all students regardless of their diverse needs, (Roy, 2023; United Nations,2006). International frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4) and UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring Report (2020) emphasize equity, accessibility, and quality learning opportunities for all (UNESCO, 2020). The Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4) and the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report (2020) were adopted as guiding frameworks in this study because both provide internationally recognized standards and indicators for evaluating inclusive and equitable education systems. These frameworks ensure that the comparative analysis of Pakistan and Malaysia is grounded in globally comparable criteria rather than context-specific definitions.Both Malaysia and Pakistan, two Asian developing countries, have acknowledged the value of inclusive education as a means of promoting educational justice and social inclusion. However, both these countries have a very different approach of inculcating inclusive education. As a result, there is a vast difference in their outcome as well. (Ensimau, et al, 2022). Although inclusive education policies have been adopted in Pakistan (Khan, 2025), their successful implementation is still hindered by a lack of funding, inadequate training for teachers, and uneven governance (Khan & Ahmed, 2021; Rashid & Siddiqui, 2024). Community involvement and policy advocacy are emerging as key drivers for advancing inclusive practices (Noor, 2023; Hassan & Ali, 2020). While, the Malaysian government has made systematic changes in their educational policies like the Inclusive Education Program (IEP) and different frameworks that highlight including students with diverse needs into mainstream schools (Lim, 2021; Tan & Ling, 2021). According to the Open Educational Resources of Malaysia’s Blueprint (2013-2025), Malaysian schools aims to enroll 75% of students that have diverse needs into mainstream schools. The government has initiated policies that would train teachers to implement inclusive education in the classrooms (Ministry of Education Malaysia, 2013, as cited in Latiff, 2025; UNESCO, 2023).Both countries, Malaysia and Pakistan are trying to overcome several barriers to achieve an all-inclusive education system. They are trying to improve teacher preparation, policy implementation and monitoring systems to overcome these challenges (Wong, 2024; Ahmad & Omar, 2022). This study will take a comparative approach towards the challenges, implementation and outcome of the both countries.
PERCEPTIONS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP-SEEKING AMONG THE GENERAL POPULATION: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION
The phenomenon of seeking psychological help is influenced by beliefs, norms from sociocultural backgrounds, and the availability of resources for this process in society. Various campaigns on global health awareness have developed lately; nevertheless, people still face certain obstacles when it comes to their access to psychological help. The current qualitative study aimed at exploring the attitudes of adults from different sociocultural backgrounds towards seeking psychological help, as well as the psychological and social obstacles they faced while doing this. The qualitative phenomenological method was applied and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 adults aged between 21 and 54. The data collected during the interviews were processed applying Braun and Clarke (2006) six-phase reflexive thematic analysis.Five primary themes emerged from the data: (1) Public Stigma and the 'Log Kya Kahenge' (Social Judgment) Phenomenon, (2) Self-Stigma and Internalized Vulnerability, (3) Socio-Cultural Expectations and Generational Divide, (4) Financial Strain and Systemic Accessibility Hurdles, and (5) Confidentiality Concerns and Institutional Trust. Findings indicate that although young adults are increasingly open to counseling, widespread fear of society, economic issues and absence of mental health knowledge continue to be major limitations. The study suggests that it is of utmost importance to undertake community-level awareness initiatives, subsidized psychological services and culturally competent therapeutic practices in order to foster the idea of seeking psychological assistance for all age groups.
Psychological help-seeking, qualitative research, public stigma, self-stigma, thematic analysis
ADMINISTRATIVE CHALLENGES IN PAKISTAN'S PRIMARY EDUCATION SYSTEM: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS WITH INDIA, SRI LANKA, AND BANGLADESH THROUGH A GOOD GOVERNANCE PERSPECTIVE
Pakistan's primary education system faces deep and persistent administrative challenges that continue to limit access, quality, and governance effectiveness despite repeated policy efforts. With over 25 million out-of-school children and one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia , the need to understand and address administrative failures in Pakistan's primary education is both urgent and significant. This study aims to identify the major administrative challenges facing Pakistan's primary education system and to compare these challenges with those of India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh through the lens of good governance theory, supported by institutional theory and human capital theory. A qualitative comparative research design is employed, drawing on a systematic review of published and unpublished literature, including government policy documents, international organization reports, national education surveys, and peer-reviewed academic sources. The findings reveal that Pakistan performs weakest across all nine administrative factors examined, including management and structure, policy application, dropout rates, communication, testing systems, professional development, educational resources and curriculum content. Sri Lanka consistently emerges as the strongest performer, while India and Bangladesh offer valuable lessons in decentralization and community engagement respectively. The study concludes that improving Pakistan's primary education administration requires stronger governance, greater institutional accountability, and sustained investment in human capital at every level of the system.
ROLE OF ICT FOR IMPROVING SKILLS OF SECONDARY LEVEL STUDENTS IN D I KHAN
This study aims to analyze the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) use in the development of secondary students in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This study tried to analyze the association of ICT capability with the development of advanced thinking skills, digital literacy, and collaborative/communicative skills and pinpointed the barriers concerning the effective use of ICT. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, a quantitative study was conducted on a population of 381 students and 317 teachers in Dera Ismail Khan. Participants were chosen using a combination of stratified sampling and simple random sampling. Five-point Likert scale questionnaires were used to collect data, which was then subjected to descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation, and moderated multiple regression analysis. The results indicated that there was a strong positive correlation of ICT with critical thinking (r = 0.48, p < 0.01), problem-solving (r = 0.44, p < 0.01), creativity (r = 0.41, p < 0.01), computer literacy (r = 0.56, p < 0.01), internet literacy (r = 0.52, p < 0.01), collaboration (r = 0.47, p < 0.01), and communication skills (r = 0.43, p < 0.01). Internet literacy was the strongest predictor of total digital literacy (β = 0.38, p < 0.001). ICT training (β = 0.31, p < 0.01), barriers of ICT (β = 0.27, p < 0.01), and ICT pedagogy (β = 0.22, p < 0.05) had a significant moderating effect on the successful implementation of ICT. There are difficulties like insufficient resources (76%), limited internet (74%), power outages (68%), and inadequate teacher training (59%). The study found that while ICT has a lot of possibilities to improve student skills, it needs more challenges to understand what it could do by focusing on infrastructure, teacher training and development, and ICT policies.
’’ICT integration, secondary education, student skills, digital literacy, higher-order thinking, collaborative learning, teacher training, educational technology, Dera Ismail Khan.’’
LONGEVITY, LIFE EXPECTANCY AND HEALTHCARE EXPENDITURE: LONG-RUN EVIDENCE FROM SOUTH EAST ASIAN COUNTRIES
Despite being one of the greatest demographic successes of the past few decades, increased life expectancy also puts a strain on national health care systems, especially in fast-changing areas like Southeast Asia. This demand for chronic-disease management, preventive care, and long-term medical services is a result of increased demand for services, separate from the pressures caused by population aging more broadly, as populations age. This article focuses on the long-run relationship between life expectancy and healthcare expenditure in South East Asia by employing an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds-testing methodology on time series data from 1995 to 2014. The model for healthcare expenditure per capita includes variables such as life expectancy, aging index, Gross Domestic Product, population, carbon dioxide emissions, and urbanization. The long-run estimates show that life expectancy has the largest positive impact among all explanatory variables, followed by the aging index and GDP per capita. The error-correction term is negative and significant, as expected, supporting the convergence process to the long-run equilibrium after a short-run shock. The results suggest that a higher life expectancy, apart from the overall aging of the population, is an independent and significant contributor to the rising healthcare costs, and has implications for long-term health-financing strategy and elderly-care planning in the economies of South East Asia.
Longevity, Life Expectancy, Healthcare Expenditure, ARDL Approach, South East Asia
EFFECT OF SOCIO-CULTURAL BARRIERS ON WOMEN'S CAREER ADVANCEMENT IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS AT SCHOOL LEVEL IN PUNJAB
This study investigates the effect of socio-cultural barriers on women's career advancement in leadership positions at the school level in Punjab. Despite growing awareness of gender equity in education, women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership roles. The research highlights how deeply rooted societal norms, cultural expectations, gender stereotypes, and traditional family roles restrict women's professional growth. It explores the influence of community attitudes, religious perceptions, and resistance to female authority within educational institutions. Using quantitative and qualitative methods, the study gathers insights from female administrators, revealing how socio-cultural factors undermine confidence, limit opportunities, and reinforce male dominance in decision-making roles. The findings stress the urgent need for policy reforms, awareness campaigns, and institutional support to challenge these barriers and promote inclusive leadership in Punjab's school system.
Socio-Cultural Barriers, Women’s, Career Advancement, Leadership, School, Punjab
SHIFTING LINES OF DETERRENCE: THE 2025 INDIA–PAKISTAN CLASH AND THE RISE OF POST-BALANCE REALISM
The India–Pakistan military escalation of May 2025, though brief, reshaped South Asia’s strategic landscape. This study asks: How did Pakistan, despite its smaller conventional capacity, achieve strategic and political advantage over India within a nuclearized balance of power system? Traditionally, the balance of power theory posits that parity deters unilateral dominance and ensures stability. Yet, the 2025 confrontation challenges this logic, as Pakistan secured a greater share of its operational and diplomatic objectives. Drawing on defense reports, think-tank analyses, and open-source intelligence, this paper argues that strategic clarity, adaptive doctrine, and credible signaling compensated for material asymmetry. To explain this deviation, the paper introduces post-balance realism—a refinement of classical and structural realism that incorporates technological adaptation, narrative legitimacy, and restraint as new determinants of deterrence. The findings suggest that South Asia’s stability now depends less on sheer capability and more on cognitive and diplomatic agility, marking the rise of a post-balance strategic order.
India–Pakistan conflict, conventional capacity, balance of power, structural realism, limited war, material asymmetry, post-balance realism
QANDEEL WAS NOT THE LAST: REVISITING HONOR KILLING IN PAKISTAN
In Pakistan, saying “no” can be a death sentence — and so can saying “yes.” Whether a woman dares to reject a suitor or chooses her own partner, she risks being silenced forever in the name of honour. This paper revisits the chilling reality of honour killings, taking Qandeel Baloch’s high-profile murder as a starting point — not a conclusion. It examines how deeply patriarchal norms, cultural rigidity, and religious misinterpretations continue to sanction the killing of women for exercising basic rights. With the help of recent, viral, and lesser-known cases across different provinces, this study reveals a disturbing pattern: honour crimes are not just tolerated but often go unpunished. Through a combination of cultural analysis, legal loophole exploration, and media reflection, the paper questions how long this impunity will persist — and what it will take for honour to stop costing lives. Qandeel was not the first, and tragically, she was not the last.
Honour Killing, Gender-Based Violence, Women’s Rights in South Asia, Legal Impunity, Panchayat System
PREDICTING AI TOOL ADOPTION AMONG SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS USING THE TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE MODEL: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS AT THE DISTRICT LEVEL
Artificial intelligence tools hold considerable promise for transforming the quality and reach of special education, yet their adoption among teachers in public school settings remains limited and poorly understood, particularly in developing country contexts. Grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this quantitative, survey-based study examines the perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and behavioral intention to adopt AI tools among special education teachers in public primary and secondary schools at the district level in Punjab, Pakistan. A sample of 100 special education teachers was selected using simple random sampling from multiple public schools within a single district. Data were collected using a structured TAM-based questionnaire comprising 24 items across three constructs: Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU), and Behavioral Intention to Adopt (BIA). Descriptive statistical analysis revealed that teachers generally perceive AI tools as potentially useful for supporting students with special needs but express moderate uncertainty about their ease of use and report relatively low behavioral intention to adopt, primarily due to inadequate training and limited institutional support. These findings highlight significant gaps in teacher readiness and institutional infrastructure that must be addressed before AI tools can be meaningfully integrated into special education practice in Pakistani public schools.
Technology Acceptance Model, TAM, AI tools, special education teachers, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, behavioral intention, public schools, Pakistan, assistive technology, inclusive education
INDEPENDENCE WITHOUT LIBERATION: NEO-COLONIAL CAPITALISM, CASTE, AND STRUCTURAL INEQUALITY IN NGŨGĨ WA THIONG’O’S PETALS OF BLOOD AND ROY’S THE GOD OF SMALL THINGS
Post-colonial societies retain legacies of social, economic, and political domination. This research examines Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things (1977) and Petals of Blood (1997) by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, respectively, in order to explore the impacts of neo-colonial capitalism, the caste system, and patriarchy upon social structures and systemic inequality in both post-colonial Kenya and India. This study employs comparative qualitative textual analysis in order to synthesize postcolonial materialism, neo-colonialism, subaltern studies, and intersectionality. The study finds that Roy’s portrayal of the destruction of local businesses and the creation of New Ilmorog’s roads, banks, and new industries and a new commercial system, creates a new dependence on both local and foreign capital while dispossessing local farmers. Furthermore, in Roy’s work, the caste and patriarchal systems stratify the social world, and then in turn, regulate Velutha and Ammu’s labor, property, and bodily autonomy, their sexuality and sexual relations, and their legal standing and choice of whom to associate with. Across both works, the systems of social stratification establish access to the highly valued resources of land, labor, dignity, love, agency, voice, and social recognition. While Kenya suffers from neo-colonial capitalism and dispossession, and India suffers from the caste and patriarchal systems, this study reimagines the post-colonial social liberation order by concentrating on the failure of economic liberation and social order of postcolonial societies, rather than the exclusive focus on cultural hybridity.
Neo-colonial capitalism, caste, patriarchy, structural inequality, postcolonial materialism, substantive liberation
INTERNAL COLONIZATION IN PAKISTAN: COLONIAL LEGACIES AND FANONIAN PERSPECTIVES
The present article critically examines phenomenon of internal colonization in Pakistan in light of theoretical framework forwarded by Frantz Fanon. Internal Colonization is a term used to describe reproduction, on soil of state, of structures of control, extraction and cultural domination as they were defined during the colonial era, but now are perpetuated by elites of state. The study is based on Fanon's vision of project of colonialism as both a political and economic and psychological process, and argues that Pakistan was not a complete break with colonial logic and is rather a transfer of power. The inherited hierarchy of languages, legal order and military and bureaucracy remained and were even reinforced in several ways. The article looks at six interrelated aspects of internal colonization, namely: economic exploitation, political repression, cultural, religious suppression, linguistic marginalisation, gendered hierarchy and psychological alienation in context of Balochistan, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It also takes into account the military as an internal coloniser and neo-colonial aspect added by global capital and projects like China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The study concludes that, in order to achieve a genuine decolonisation, in radical sense that Fanon was dreaming of, there is a need for transformative action in four structural,cultural and psychological dimensions: decentralisation of power, equal distribution of resources, resurgence of marginalised languages, cultures and complete implementation of provincial autonomy.
Internal colonization, Frantz Fanon, post-colonial theory, Pakistan, provincial autonomy, structural violence and decolonization key words.
STUDENT NURSES JOURNEY THROUGH GENDER ROLE SOCIALIZATION IN HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION IN PAKISTAN
Purpose: This qualitative study analyses how young student nurses internalize gendered roles during their professional socialization in health care system. Design/methodology/approach: Through a phenomenological lens, this research employs in-depth interviews with 25 nursing students from 5 major public hospitals of Lahore. This study utilizes NVivo-14 software for inductive thematic analysis to comprehensively analyze the nursing perceptions about their gender role socialization. Theoretical insights from Judith Butler’s gender performativity, Foucault’s knowledge-power dynamics, and feminist objectification theory frame the findings. In the culturally complex healthcare context of Pakistan, gender role expectations significantly shape the experiences and self-perceptions of nursing students. Findings: The findings reveal central themes from various perspectives on nursing students’ journey. Gender role socialization happens from the point of view of personal concerns, societal challenges and institutional management exposure that they experience in public health sector of Lahore. The diversified themes are (1) the personal negotiation of “becoming an ideal nurse-mother” as aspiration following gendered norms (2) the social normalization on “ethos of good-modest girl” provides emotional labor due to societal expectations (3) the education offers scripted “femininity of serving lady” who avoids confrontation under cover lack of encouragement, (4) the health care management demands as “economy compensated caregivers” placement of nurses as under weak leadership and (5) the clinical setting appreciate “silence to patriarchal voices” under organizational hierarchies, reinforcing a submissive identity. Practical implications: This research highlights how socialization processes in nursing reinforce gender hierarchies, thus impacting care quality and student retention. The study recommends gender-sensitive reforms in nursing pedagogy and leadership to promote equity, empowerment, and professional dignity in healthcare settings. Originality/value: To the best of authors’ knowledge, this groundbreaking research describes sole perspective of nursing students from being just a student to qualified nurse.
gender roles, socialization, identity, healthcare management