Teachers' Perceptions of the Impact of Political Decisions on Education in Pakistan

Abstract

The role of politics cannot be limited to education because the political system directly affects all the systems of society, and education is also one of the subsets that is directly influenced by the political system. In Pakistan, political commitments for the aspiration of the nation have been extractive. Once political leaders get a higher position, they forget their responsibilities and use resources and power for personal benefits. Education is the road to national development. However, it creates a sense of responsibility among the people. On the basis of education, people not only realize their duties but also know how to achieve their national goals. One of the important goals of education is to enable people by enhancing their general consciousness regarding their national and international position as global citizens. Unfortunately, Education has mostly remained neglected in Pakistan for the last 76 years; however, a strong political demand for education has not been created. The main purpose of this article is to highlight the effects of politics on the education system of Pakistan and find possible ways to address educational problems. This research was qualitative by method and descriptive by nature. Non-probably data sampling technique was used, and teachers were selected purposively. Data were collected from all the political science teachers of schools, universities, and madrassas in Islamabad Urban 1. Data were analyzed thematically, and the majority of respondents agreed that political influence is a cause of weak Education. According to the respondent, political influence should be limited in educational institutions, especially in madrasas and universities. It was recommended to create one strong, modern national curriculum for all schools, public, private, and madrassas. It should focus on critical thinking, science, civic values, and Pakistan’s rich cultural diversity.