DefinePK

Abstract

The influence exerted during political protests led by Pakistani political parties extends towards academia within Pakistan. Using Political Socialization Theory as a theoretical framework, this study was conducted in order to comprehend the immediate and long-term implications of these protests on education in the country. Following thematic analysis through qualitative research approach that involved conducting interviews with students from various academic institutions, the study uncovered prevailing themes surrounding the impact of political protests on academia. The findings demonstrated that these protests disrupt academic schedules, hamper students’ performance and give rise to psychological stress and anxiety. Furthermore, experiences with political unrest potentially influenced career path choices, underscoring the theory's premise of political experiences impacting life decisions. These protests also contributed towards heightened political awareness and engagement among students and fostered resilience and adaptability. The study highlighted the need for comprehensive policies, a supportive environment and balanced political socialization, stressing the importance of educational continuity and mental health support within academic institutions amid political unrest. It called for a holistic approach to policy formulation and implementation that considers the diverse outcomes of political protests. The study contributed to a better understanding of the intersection between politics and education in Pakistan by demonstrating the applicability of Political Socialization Theory in this context and provided insights for policymakers and educators to mitigate the adverse effects and leverage the potential benefits of political protests on academia