Journal of Development and Social Sciences

Role of ChatGPT in Undergraduate Education: Benefits, Challenges, and Ethical Considerations

Muhammad Mehran — 2025-04-07

This research focuses on benefits and challenges of using Artificial Intelligence (AI), specifically ChatGPT, in undergraduate education at Government College University Lahore. AI technology is advancing, its use in educational settings has been increasing as well. ChatGPT is a high-level language model tool developed by AI, among the most influential tools of one branch in which Artificial Intelligence tool works. This tool uses a large dataset to create text that other humans have produced and it can be utilized for academic purpose. This research study used quantitative research methodology, questionnaires were distributed to gather information from students. The results show that ChatGPT can be a helpful tool for personalized learning, quick content creation, and easy access to information. At the same time, it presents challenges like cheating, misuse, and unequal access to technology. Future research should focus on how the use of AI tools impacts students' cognitive development and critical thinking skill, Investigate the long-term effects of AI tools on students' creative and problem-solving abilities, explore how AI technologies like ChatGPT can be integrated into diverse academic coursework and cultural settings and Study the effects of AI in areas with limited resources and accessibility to educational tools.

Challenging Boundaries in Harrow's The Ten Thousand Doors of January: A Postcolonial Feminist Study

Ayesha Khan — 2025-04-12

This study examines Harrow's The Ten Thousand Doors of January (2019) through the lenses of Homi K. Bhabha and Simone de Beauvoir. Harrow uses fantasy to critique colonialisation and celebrate women's resistance. The role of women in fiction and adventure literature has often been marginalised and overlooked. The novel presents the parallel story of January Scaller and her mother, Adelaide Larson, as they navigate their path under the rule of Mr. Locke, an Englishman who created an archaeological society. The society of Locke collects antiques and crafts from other worlds and closes and destroys the doors they find. The research involves close textual analysis, guided by Simone de Beauvoir's The Second Sex (1949) and Homi K. Bhabha's hybridity and 'Third Space' theories. It analyses how January, as a mixed-race individual with black skin, faces exploitation in Locke's household and how her father has been subjected to Locke's insatiable colonial greed. It examines how January exists in an in-between space and how doors symbolize a third world where the world intersects. Boundaries dissolve, allowing January, Julian, and Adelaide to defy social constraints and redefine their identities. The present study concludes how Hybridity and the concept of 'the other' reveal the resistance and transformation of marginalized identities against colonial and societal constraints in The Ten Thousand Doors of January.

An Empirical Analysis of Demand Determinants for Women’s Apparel in Emerging Markets

Muhammad Ashan — 2025-04-15

With an eye toward economic, psychological, and cultural impacts especially in Karachi, this study seeks to pinpoint and examine main elements driving demand in Pakistan's women's apparel sector. Although the women's clothing market of Pakistan is growing, it is still difficult to forecast because of changing customer behavior impacted by cultural changes, economic variance, and changing digital trends. Strategic decisions and inventory control suffer inaccurate demand predictions. Survey data gathered from Karachi female consumers was a quantitative one. Examined in relation to income levels, brand loyalty, price sensitivity, and product preferences was regression analysis. Results show that main economic drivers are pricing policy and discretionary income. Purchasing behavior is greatly shaped by cultural inclination for simple and classic designs as well as by digital marketing and social media. High expenses prevent the acceptance of sustainable fashion even if environmental awareness is growing. Advice for clothing companies should be to use flexible pricing policies, stress distinctive brand identities, and improve online interaction. In the garment business, knowledge of demand elements helps to improve forecasting, competitiveness, and sustainable development.

Unveiling Gender Disparities: A Critical Review of PSDP Budget Allocations (2020-2025)

Saiqa Wahab — 2025-04-21

This Study rigorously assessed gender specific budgetary allocations of Pakistan Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2020-2025, focusing on evaluating the degree and impact of women specific initiatives. The main aim was to understand how these initiatives and budget allocations empower women in Pakistani society. Using annual PSDP reports for documentary analysis, the research also examined allocations using gender-responsive budgeting framework to identify trends, sectoral gaps and funding patterns. The finding highlighted that, despite a slight increase in education and health allocation, funding for gender-specific initiatives is still shockingly low, accounting only for 0.04% of the total PSDP across five years. Overall, the study highlighted noticeable inequality of prioritization where education and health received the majority of funding, whereas economic empowerment, legal aid and rural based initiatives consistently receive low levels of funding. The study recommended at least a 5-10% increase on gender-based allocation for the total PSDP, in order to provide a radically higher budgetary allocation that could successfully promote women empowerment and gender equality.

Understanding Environmental Science: Evaluating Conceptual understanding of Prospective Science Teachers for Environmental Issues in higher Education

Tayyaba Muhammad Akram — 2025-04-22

Present study aimed to evaluates the understanding of prospective science teachers at undergraduate level about the concepts of environmental science. Environmental science understanding among prospective teachers is essential and significant for the society to make sustainability parameters best in practice. For this purose, data were collected using Tayyaba Environmental Science Academic Performance Test (TEAT). A survey-based research design was employed, with purposive sampling of 54 prospective science students. The sample included prospective science teachers with background of pre-medical and pre-engineering, with a focus on overall conceptual understanding, Factors of environmental issues and the impact of demographic factors such as CGPA, study hours, socioeconomic status and internet usage. A 60-item MCQ-based assessment tool “Tayyaba Environmental Science Academic Performance Test (TEAT)” was designed to evaluate prospective science teachers’ conceptual understanding about environmental issues . Data were analyzed through Descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results of descriptive statistics revealed that prospective science teachers achieved a moderate overall conceptual understanding (mean score = (M = 39.87, SD = 4.9), with significant variability across Factors. The highest mean score was observed in “Contribution of Environmental Sciences to Society” (M = 4.78, SD = 0.98), while the lowest was in “Human Environment and Resources” (M = 2.67, SD = 0.85). Inferential analyses showed no significant mean differences in conceptual understanding based on CGPA (F = 0.468, p = .798), study hours (F = 1.134, p = .355), socioeconomic status (F = 0.142, p = .868), or internet access (t = 1.15, p = .257). These findings highlight the importance of fostering environmental awareness and equipping future science teachers with the knowledge and skills to resolve environmental challenges. It is recommended that the short faculty training programs should be initiated to introduce experiential learning methods to teach science subjects like environmental sciences to strengthen compitesnes of teachers as well as students in improving conceptual understanding of Environmental issues to meet sustainable development goals (SDGS) in future.

Binge Watching, Para Social Relationships and Psycho Social well-Being in Early Adults

Kashmala Shaheen Shaker — 2025-04-23

This study aimed to examine the relationship between binge-watching, parasocial relationships, and psychosocial well-being in early adults, with a focus on the mediating role of parasocial relationships.The rise in binge-watching behavior among young adults has been associated with the formation of parasocial relationships, potentially impacting mental and social well-being. This study explores these interrelations in the context of early adulthood. Using a correlational research design, a purposive sample of 250 university students (88 males, 162 females; M = 1.65, SD = 0.48) aged 18–30 years was recruited from universities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Standardized scales were used to assess binge-watching engagement, parasocial interaction, and psychosocial well-being. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and mediation analysis. Binge-watching was positively correlated with parasocial relationships and negatively with psychosocial well-being. Parasocial relationships significantly mediated this relationship. Demographic variables showed no significant association. Interventions promoting balanced media use and emotional regulation are recommended to enhance psychosocial well-being in early adults. Data was collected from three universities only which was a limitation as the data cannot be generalised on students of other universities. Data was not collected from males and females equally. In further studies gender difference could be one dimension to be researched on. For future research, evaluation criteria can be altered in accordance with the sample, or the sample population might be given a brief introduction to the study.

AI-Powered Surveillance in China and Its Implications for Global Democracy

Munazzah Bukhari — 2025-04-25

This article explores how China's AI-powered surveillance system affects the world, emphasizing how AI reinforces authoritarian rule, stifles criticism, and shapes international standards. Through the integration of technology such as facial recognition, big data analytics, and predictive policing, China facilitates behavioral control and real-time surveillance through online filtering and the Social Credit System. In addition to strengthening control over domestic life, these instruments are disseminated internationally through programs like the Digital Silk Road, which puts democratic institutions at risk, particularly in nations with lax security.Using qualitative methods—including policy analysis, cross-case comparison, and content analysis—this study draws from primary sources like government documents and secondary sources such as academic research and investigative journalism. The article calls for international cooperation to promote ethical AI governance, strengthen legal and institutional protections, and support civil society and independent media in order to counter the spread of AI-enabled authoritarianism. The establishment of global standards for responsible AI use is crucial to upholding democratic values in the digital age. The findings demonstrate the widespread adoption of China's model in fragile democracies, raising serious concerns about privacy, freedom of expression, and democratic participation

Trade Barriers and Broken Supply Chains: Economic Fallout of Brexit

Asma Imtiaz — 2025-04-27

The aim of this Study is to explore the Economic Barrier as well as Broken supply chains that had create disturbance among UK and EU after the post-withdrawal from European Union. By examining economic factors, trade relations, labor markets as well as regulatory changes, the study indicates the complex and multi-faceted impacts of Brexit Agreement over UK’s Economy. To conduct this study Qualitative methodology has been used with respect to Analytical approach. The main inspiration of the research is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how Brexit has reshaped the economic landscape of UK as well as complexes for future regional economic stabilities. Therefore, this study recommends that United Kingdom as well as European Union needs to do negotiations among them because both regions are geographically linked to each other and for mutual security purposes some deals would take place for better relations. Through this both regions gain benefits strategically and economically from one another.

Understanding Procrastination Among Prospective Teachers in Public-Sector Universities: A Phenomenological Study

Zainab Mustafa — 2025-05-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the experiences of procrastination among aspiring educators at Pakistani public universities in Lahore. Future teachers who procrastinate run serious risks to their academic performance and readiness for the workforce. Little is known about how cultural, institutional, and emotional factors interact to influence procrastination behaviors in developing nations, despite a wealth of research conducted in Western contexts. Six teacher-educators chosen by purposive sampling and eighteen aspiring teachers participated in in-depth interviews using a qualitative phenomenological design. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze the data thematically. The results showed that emotional difficulties, ambiguous academic frameworks, peer normalization, technological distractions, and individual time management shortcomings all have an impact on procrastination. According to the participants, institutional impediments, emotional distress, and ingrained behaviors all contribute to long-term delays. In order to encourage proactive learning behaviors and professional development among aspiring teachers, it is recommended that teacher education programs incorporate training in emotional regulation, structured academic support, digital literacy development, and peer culture shifts.

Critical Thinking Pedagogy in Teacher Education: An Analysis of Instructional Practices in Pakistani Higher Education

Muhammad Jamil — 2025-05-02

This qualitative study investigated teacher educators' critical thinking practices in the teacher education program of a public university in Pakistan. Critical thinking has been emphasized in Pakistani educational policies; however, its implementation remains a challenge in higher education. Five teacher educators were purposefully selected for non-participant observations in classrooms. To assess the implementation of critical thinking practices, a binary (yes/no) checklist was used across five categories: teaching strategies, student engagement, assessment methods, learning environment and institutional support. Multiple raters were used to validate observation. Findings revealed moderate overall implementation with substantial variation across categories and teachers. Teaching strategies and learning environmental practices were the most frequently implemented, whereas assessment practices, the least frequently observed. Teachers excelled in establishing inclusive environments but struggled with assessment methods and technology integration. Teacher education programs may establish explicit assessment frameworks, offer faculty development in critical thinking instruction and incorporate digital tools for collaborative knowledge construction.

The Explorative Study of Challenges Involved in Delivery of Justice in Sindh

Ghulam Shah — 2025-05-03

This study aims to explore the core challenges impeding the effective delivery of justice in Sindh, Pakistan. The primary objective is to identify institutional, procedural, and socio-political barriers within the judicial system. Despite the foundational role of the judiciary in ensuring fairness and accountability, the system in Sindh remains burdened by massive case backlogs, poor infrastructure, political interference, and limited access to legal aid. Employing a qualitative research approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with judges, lawyers, prosecutors, and police officers, complemented by documentary analysis of court records and policies. Findings reveal widespread delays due to outdated laws, inadequate staffing, and inefficient case management. The study underscores the urgent need for judicial reforms, including modernizing procedural laws, enhancing court infrastructure, integrating digital tools, and strengthening legal aid mechanisms. These steps are crucial for restoring public trust, improving judicial efficiency, and ensuring accessible and timely justice for all segments of society.

Exploring the Linguistic Capabilities and Limitations of AI for Endangered Language preservation

Majid Ali — 2025-05-03

The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the crossway of semantics and computational linguistics, aiming how methods of computational linguistics support to understand the process of modeling meaning in natural language. This study opts a qualitative and exploratory approach to examine the capability of AI language models to cater the dimensions of semantics and pragmatics in the context of language documentation. For the current study, the data was collected through the different sources such as real world linguistics examples to understand the nature of the data. The published documentation of under sourced languages, such as digital archive (ELAR, DOBES) grammar and fields notes were also became the source for collecting the data. The data was analyze through thematic linguistic analysis. The study opted semantic and evaluation criteria to check the lexical accuracy in the form of synonyms and antonyms use. For pragmatic, the pragmatic evaluation was done to check the contextual interpretation and appropriateness of speech act. The study finds gap between semantic and pragmatic modeling in AI language system, having a greater disparity evident in under documented languages. On the basis of these findings researchers presented some recommendations for future researchers and scholars.

Pakistan Relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran: Comparative Analysis

Muhammad Waqas Anwar — 2025-05-03

The purpose of this article is to comparatively analyze Pakistan’s bilateral relations with Iran and Saudi Arabia, focusing on diplomatic, economic, and security dimensions. Pakistan’s foreign policy is shaped by the necessity to balance two ideologically divergent yet regionally significant powers—Iran and Saudi Arabia. Historical, religious, and economic ties influence its relations with both countries, complicating its foreign policy decisions. A qualitative approach is used, relying solely on secondary sources including academic publications, policy papers, and official records. Content analysis identifies recurring themes and patterns in diplomatic strategies. Findings reveal Pakistan’s policy of strategic neutrality and mediation, shaped by geopolitical compulsions, economic dependence on Saudi Arabia, and border security cooperation with Iran. Despite sectarian tensions and competing regional influences, Pakistan continues to pursue a pragmatic foreign policy that seeks equilibrium between Tehran and Riyadh. To sustain this balance, Pakistan must institutionalize neutrality, strengthen regional diplomacy, and diversify energy and economic partnerships.

Political Instability and Exports Dynamics in Pakistan: A Time Series Approach

Naina Khan — 2025-05-05

This study examines the impact of political instability on Pakistan’s export performance from 1980 to 2022. It aims to identify how governance disruptions deter exports growth compared to regional economies. Pakistan has experienced substantial political instability, fluctuating between democratic and military rule since its independence. Its share in global exports is lagging behind bordering economies. Nations like Bangladesh and India have expanded global trade shares, whereas Pakistan’s exports remain constrained by policy unpredictability and institutional weaknesses. Using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach, we analyze short- and long-term effects. A composite political instability index incorporates Factors like the state of law and order, internal disputes, and government.. Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) tests verify data stationarity. Political instability establishes significant negative effects on exports both in short-run and long-run. Key transmission channels include disrupted supply chains, unpredictable trade policies, and deteriorating infrastructure. These factors collectively erode Pakistan’s export competitiveness in international markets. Building strong political institutions is critical to mitigating instability. Priority reforms should enhance transparency through open governance mechanisms, strengthen accountability via independent oversight bodies, and reinforce the rule of law with judicial reforms. Such institutional stabilization would create a predictable policy environment conducive to export growth.

Logistical Analysis of Traditional Red Brick Kiln Industry of North Sindh, Pakistan

Siraj Narejo — 2025-05-07

This research paper purpose is to check impact of brick logistical supply chain management on the final house value. There are eight sreps to “finished house” starting with “procurement of clay” at kilns. Model is simple multiple linear regression using SPSS. North Sindh is traditionally and culturally very rich region. For them onstruction is also a fun activity. They want to construct houses , such research is need of time to tell them what factors are responsible for construction of their sweet home. Purposive sample randomly selected is used and only three districts of North Sindh are chosen i.e. Khairpur, Sukkur, and Larkana. Traditional red brick kilns are divided into three categories by scholar based on production level , infrastructure, land area and annual operating time. Sample of random 90 kilns , 100 households , 200 local middlemen , labour and brick sales men were taken. Data is all ordinal and interval. Focus is cross sectional brick industry chain management analysis. Value is added at end of each of the eight steps when clay goes through transformation into shape of final house. House demand is affected by the time, duration, cost, etc at each of eight steps of brick making. 10000 bricks is set as standard at each level. (house made of 10000 bricks). Clay cost is taken as base. Land, fuel, transporter, Jamadaar, kiln management and sales agent add value to clay gradually by making bricks. Highest value is added at stage when house is finally sold. Labour adds least value to 10000 brick house. In the end all costs of players are observed in final house sales price or value. Model is valid as at least two variables are significant at adjusted R2 value of 0.299. It means there is impact of brick logistical supply chain management on the final house value. It is recommended to increase value of labour that adds least value to 10000 brick house. BCR is least for small kilns so should not be taxed.

The Prevalence of Schizophrenia and Depression among Male Cannabis Users: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

Sidra Shehzad — 2025-05-07

This study examines the prevalence of depression and schizophrenia among male cannabis users in Islamabad, Pakistan. Cannabis use has been linked to various psychiatric disorders. This study hypothesized that longer cannabis use, younger age, and ethnic differences (Punjabi vs. Pashto speakers) are associated with higher rates of depression and schizophrenia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 50 male cannabis users aged 18-60. Demographic data were collected, and psychological assessments were done using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Data were analyzed using SPSS (v13), employing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and independent sample t-tests. Long-term cannabis use and younger age were associated with higher depression and schizophrenia scores. Significant differences in usage patterns were found between Punjabi and Pashto speakers. Policymakers should develop targeted prevention and treatment programs for cannabis users, focusing on young adults and addressing ethnic variations to reduce psychiatric comorbidities.

Analyzing the Dimensions of Higher Education in Balochistan: A Student-Centric Approach

Sadia Zahra — 2025-05-07

This study examines the quality of higher education in Balochistan by analyzing student engagement, available facilities, and lecturer performance. Higher education in the region faces significant challenges, as students express dissatisfaction with their learning experience, institutional infrastructure, and faculty performance, which hinder academic growth and limit their potential contributions to society. A comprehensive survey was conducted among higher education students to evaluate their engagement, access to facilities, and perceptions of lecturer performance, alongside a review of student evaluation documents to assess faculty suitability. The findings reveal widespread dissatisfaction among students due to inadequate infrastructure, lack of facilities, and a mismatch between faculty expertise and teaching strategies. Immediate interventions are needed to improve the quality of higher education in Balochistan, including modernizing teaching methods, upgrading infrastructure, and hiring competent educators. Such measures are vital to empowering students to excel academically and make meaningful contributions to society.

Feminine Involvement in Violence: Differentiation between Myths and Realities: An Examination of Insurgency, Secession, Extremism, and Terrorism

Noor ul Huda — 2025-05-08

This study looks at how to women are involved in revolt, separatist, extremist, and terrorist activities in an effort to distinguish between these beliefs and realities. Understanding women's motivations, involvement, and influence in various settings is the goal in order to debunk preconceptions and illuminate the complex realities. By dispelling widespread beliefs and preconceptions and illuminating the complicated realities of women's experiences in insurgency, separatist, extremist, and terrorist activities, this study aims to examine the intricacies of feminine involvement in violence.The involvement of women in violent movements calls into question long-standing assumptions and poses significant queries regarding gender, agency, and the nature of violence. The methodology used in this research is qualitative method and also used historical, descriptive, and analytical to understand the feminism involment . Women in violent movements have a variety of reasons and experiences, which should be acknowledged and addressed. It suggest to create are specific measures and regulations that take into consideration the complexity of women's role in violence. Encourage women to take part in peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiatives and to be empowered. Dispel popular misconceptions and preconceptions that support false beliefs about women's involvement in violent crimes.

The Interplay between Political Stability and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Pakistan: An Assessment

Humaira Aslam — 2025-05-09

The aim of this paper is to examine the fact that how political stability is directly interlinked with the future of sustainable development goals (SDG’s) in Pakistan. Pakistan is a country which is facing multiple issues like corruption, poor governance and week institutions which are the significant challenges in achieving SDG’s by 2030. Political instability in Pakistan is a serious issue and a key barrier in the progress of important aspects like education, poverty alleviation, climate change and healthcare problems. The study adopt a qualitative research methodology by using both primary and secondary data sources of data. The primary data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 33 key stakeholders from three sectors: officials from the Ministry of Planning and Development, representatives from Commerce and Trade and legal experts affiliated with bar councils. The collected data was analyzed through content and thematic analysis techniques to extract required answer of research questions and data are assessed the coherence of institutional narratives around SDG implementation. Strengthening democratic institutions, reducing political polarization, stability in economic sector, balance in civil-military relations and combating corruption to improve governance will be the possible solutions to ensure political stability in Pakistan to achieve SDG’s till 2030.

From Roots to Rhizomes: Unveiling Migratory and Nomadic Trajectories in Hamid’s Exit West and Robinson’s The Ministry for the Future

Munazzah Rabbani — 2025-05-21

In a world where displacement is the new norm of being, migration appears both as rupture and reinvention. This article focuses on Mohsin Hamid's Exit West (2017) and Kim Stanley Robinson's The Ministry for the Future (2020), and explores how migratory patterns of human and non-human entities, identity crisis and nomadic subjectivities are constructed and reshaped in times of planetary conflict and ecological collapse. Deleuze and Guattari's Rhizomatic Structures (1980), Rosi Braidotti's Nomadic Subjectivity (1994), and Arjun Appadurai's Concept of Scapes (1990) allow us to view these instances of migration not as individual acts, but as entrapments in global systems of capital, ecology, and culture. These two novels reject linear, origin-destination models of migration, and present it as an existential necessity— a continual negotiation of fragmented selves across unstable landscapes. Ultimately, this study contends that in contemporary fiction, migration becomes a philosophical condition, a way to re-conceptualize subjectivity beyond nationalism, territories, and stable identities in a world of uncertainty. Future studies can be carried out in the literary context of non-Anglophone diasporic literatures.

Filling the Void: Transgenerational Haunting and the Burden of Replacement in Vijay’s The Far Field

Aqsa Javaid — 2025-05-21

The dominant focus on Euro-American perspectives has overshadowed the global resonance of trauma studies, particularly conflict-ridden regions like Kashmir. This study seeks to redress this imbalance by examining the experiences of trauma among Kashmiris, who have faced continuous political turbulence and militarization since the partition of the Indian subcontinent. Vijay’s The Far Field (2019) serves as a critical narrative, illustrating the perilous temporal connections between past and present. In this study, The Replacement Child perspective provided by Schwab (2010) has been used to trace the legacy of transgenerational trauma in Vijay's narrative. The spectral haunting that the replacement child must deal with has been investigated by the researcher. Furthermore, Derrida's concept of "supplementarity" has been used to elucidate the phenomenon. The focus of this study is to unravel the spatio-temporal aspects and the extent of this transference in the offspring of the perpetrators. Future studies must investigate the ways in which the Replacement Child trope functions in other postcolonial works in order to uncover the psychological underpinnings of transgenerational trauma.

Social Impact of State Charity on Vulnerable Populations: An Ethnographic Study of the low income Families in Baltistan

Arifa Batool — 2025-05-28

This study explores the social impact of state charity programs and examines how such initiatives influence the well-being of vulnerable individuals. Baltistan’s people who are in hardships which are associated with geographic isolation, traditional practices, and environmental problems, how charity programs addressed by the state correspond with the locals’ and communities’ experience and expectations. Ethnographic approach to explore the lived experiences and direct financial and material support in addressing immediate needs, identify the disadvantages of these programs with a specific focus on the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) in Baltistan. The finding of this study show BISP provide short-term relief, they are not sustainable for long-term development. It highlights the need to enhance individual capabilities and expand opportunities. Recommended as a strategy to break cycles of dependency and encourage long-term societal transformation. The study advocates for a more sustainable approach to state charity, ensuring lasting social progress and improved livelihoods for vulnerable populations.

The Impact of Media Coverage on Political Behavior among Pakistani Students: A Case Study of GC Women University Sialkot

Nayab Asghar — 2025-05-28

This study investigates the impact of media coverage on the political behaviour of youth in Pakistan by incorporating how different forms of media coverage including biased, sensationalized, neutral and investigative affect the political engagement of university students. In an age dominated by digital connectivity and rapid information exchange, both traditional and digital media have become influential in shaping political awareness, opinions and participation among young people. The quantitative and descriptive approach has been adopted and an online survey was conducted targeting the students of all running semesters of BS and MS from social sciences, natural sciences and administrative sciences at GCWUS. Using Cochran’s formula, minimum required sample size was collected 367 and the responses received were 370. The descriptive and inferential ststistics were used to analyse the data. The findings reveal that while media, especially social media, significantly enhances political awareness, it also exposes youth to emotionally charged or polarized narratives that may lead to confusion, distrust or selective participation. Neutral and investigative reporting was determined to promote issue-based engagement and critical thinking while sensational and biased content gave rise to political division or indifference. It is recommended that cooperative initiatives be employed by policymakers, academic institutions, and media companies to encourage balanced reporting and media literacy, as this will make youth more critically and constructively engage in democratic processes.

Striving for Survival: An Existential Feminist Analysis of Nawal El-Saadawi's Rebellious Women in the Selected Texts

Syeda Mashal Bukhari — 2025-05-30

The article makes an existential feminist analysis of Nawal El-Saadawi's Woman at Point Zero and Memoirs of a Woman Doctor concentrating on female resistance . The writings illustrate the influence of societal inequalities on women and the interplay between gender hierarchy and social rank within national ideologies. The study uses Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre’s existential feminism to analyze how the main characters strive to prove their lives and identities, differentiating themselves from what lies above them in eternity. Through close reading and qualitative analysis the research elucidates the mechanisms by which patriarchal power structures oppress women and stifle their capacity for protest. The study emphasizes the struggle for survival and empowerment, alongside the development of inner resilience in the face of oppression and systematic injustice. Further researches can locate El-Saadawi's narratives as constituting essential feminist literature that champions women's rights and elevates disadvantaged voices.

Impact of Workplace Friendship on Employee Flourishing: A Moderated Mediation Model

Azhar Iqbal — 2025-05-30

This study examines the impact of workplace friendship on employee flourishing, with the direct effect of work engagement, while positive humor strengthens the relationship between workplace friendship and employee flourishing. This study uses regression analysis incorporating mediation and moderation to validate the hypotheses. Workplace friendships significantly influence employee flourishing, while work engagement has a small impact. This study has many implications for bankers, managers, and other service organizations. It has a sample size of 255 respondents from 5 banks, and convenience sampling has been used to collect the data. This research focuses on the questionnaire used to gather information from 255 employees working in Pakistan's banks. As mentioned above, the results show that our hypothesis is accepted, which means a significant positive relationship exists between workplace friendships (WF) and employee flourishing (EF). The findings confirm the presence of mediation, while no moderation is present. This study analysis the workplace friendship on emplyyee flourishing

Political Factors Affecting the Academic and Administrative Environment of Colleges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Wafa Mohammad — 2025-05-31

This study aims to investigate the impact of political factors on the functioning of academic and administrative arrangements in government colleges of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with a special reference to Malakand Division, Pakistan. Although sound policy frameworks regarding educational governance have been implemented, politics and political influences have been one of the major factors affecting the performance of the institutions. The research has been designed through a quantitative, descriptive and correlational design to analyze the effect of political influences such as favoritisms in appointments, manipulation in policies, and interruptions in administrations on the college operations. A sample of 400 participants has been selected from 20 government colleges using a stratified random sampling technique, which included 200 male and female each, recruited in teaching and administrative cadres. The data was collected through a validated Likert scale questionnaire that was analyzed using SPSS. The findings of the study indicate a significant negative correlation between political factors with academic performance and administrative efficiency. The regression further confirmed that political factors predict about 27% of variance in academic and 22% in administrative functioning. The gender-wise analysis also revealed that male respondents have perceived enough political interference, especially in leadership and decision making. The study has, therefore, concluded that politics has a significantly negative influence upon the internal governance and academic output of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa colleges. For the improvement of the situation, the establishment of meritocratic organization, merit-based recruitment, capacity-building programs for the administrators, educational surveillance by involving the community should be initiated. These system level interventions are necessary to ensure a stable, transparent and effective educational system as well. These efforts help the government and other stakeholders in implementing the educational policies in their real faces rather than their whimsical dimension.

Analyzing the Laws and Practices of Disputes Resolutions in Bilateral Investments: A Case Study of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

Zunaira Faiz — 2025-06-01

The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) prove to be an important component of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and potentially revolutionize regional connectivity, drives economic growth, and enhances intra-Asian trade. But the project also has major issues, like concerns about politics, security and the absence of dispute resolution mechanisms between local investors and foreign investors. This article examines and evaluates the laws and practices related to dispute resolutions in Pakistan and China particularly the bilateral investment agreements pertaining to CPEC. It reviews how disputes are handled among all the parties involved, including government, private sector entities, and local communities. This study also establishes the significance of having clear, fair, and workable mechanisms of dispute resolution systems that could resolve conflicts emerging during the various phases of a project. The research findings show that the initiative holds the potential to generate economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen regional integration, but this will only happen if critical risks are addressed.

Sovereignty and Survival: The Pakistani Context

Mehak Nasir — 2025-06-03

Employing a critical lens, the changing concept of sovereignty in geopolitics is analyzed and with special focus the obstacles experienced by Pakistan are compared to the global examples. Basically, the goal is to ascertain the manner in which sovereignty is asserted, kept or dilated in presence of foreign pressure, geopolitical tensions and inner instability. Sovereignty remains a defining factor in a state's ability to exercise independent decision-making, yet it is often challenged by external interventions, economic dependencies, and internal governance failures. The paper creates an understanding of leadership strategies, policy options and resistance models of different countries towards reinforcing their sovereign power, through qualitative analysis. Methodologically, it employs political discourse analysis, analysis of recent diplomatic events and frameworks of state policy to describe patterns of sovereign assertion and erosion. The results show that powerful states commonly use ideological or military means to ensure or expand sovereignty, while smaller countries or those that are economically dependent, must struggle more to exercise this right. Strategic defiance is shown by countries like Iran and China in resisting outside interference. This provides context by placing these insights in relation to Pakistan’s unique geopolitical position, economic vulnerabilities and policy inconsistencies and identifies challenges and potential strategies to reinforce Pakistan’s sovereignty. The conclusion then states that for Pakistan to uphold its sovereign authority, it has to follow all of it; may it be a self-reliant economy, institutional reform and foreign policy continuity based on its own national interest. This research helps to discuss how important as part of sovereignty pointing the internal governance and external pressure in the formation of state legitimacy. It shows a nuanced understanding of sovereignty as being about more than territorial control and of resilient leadership, strategic autonomy and capable diplomacy. Proposed recommendations are not part of this research.

The Effectiveness of Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence Theory on Teaching Strategies of University Teachers DG Khan, Pakistan

Samina Naz — 2025-06-04

The study aimed to identify the various intelligence levels among university instructors and their correlation with teaching practices. The sample of 151 male and female university lecturers from Ghazi University was chosen using simple random selection. The study employed two questionnaires: the Teaching Strategies Questionnaire and the Multiple Intelligence's Questionnaire. The data analysis methods employed were correlation analysis and the t-test. Apart from visual and kinesthetic intelligence, there was no statistically significant difference found. The corresponding teaching methodologies for linguistic, logical, visual, musical, kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalistic, and existential intelligence's were discovered to positively correlate with one other. This study recommends that appropriate environments and facilities be provided for the scientific method, independent projects, and training experts in the planning and adoption of different teaching strategies based on the various intelligence dimensions of the student.

An Overview of Artificial Intelligence Applications in Art Education

Tahmeena Javaid Adeel — 2025-06-04

This study examines the integration of AI into art education from 2020 to 2025, with a focus on the way it shapes pedagogy, student engagement, creativity, and ethical considerations. The dawn of AI technologies has brought considerable changes to the educational environment, especially in the creative domains. These instruments provide the students in the arts with new channels for a very personal update on the content, the feedback system upgrading, and the innovative creation of works of art, as they pose dilemmas such as authorship, bias, and over-reliance on automation at the same time. A systematic review of the literature in which 20 peer-reviewed studies from academic databases and scholarly repositories published from January 2020 to May 2025 were analyzed was conducted. The Studies met the criteria of relevance, accessibility, and educational context. To eliminate the thematic content analysis of technological applications, pedagogical strategies, learning outcomes, and institutional responses, the data extraction method was used. The results demonstrate that artificial intelligent not only enriches man's creativity but also draws on, innovative technological resources, designed for final optimizations and stimulates proper pupil participation. The use of Generative AI tools like DALL·E and Stable Diffusion has helped to greatly facilitate the process of iteration design and visual exploration. In a few cases, the respondents raised issues about some likely outcomes: the disappearance of traditional skills and illegal use of computer-generated materials. It is suggested that art education curriculums should include AI literacy, enhance continuous professional development for teachers, and set up clear ethical guidelines for AI use. Further research needs to investigate the effects of AI on students' creativity and cognitive development in the long run. A balanced, inclusive, and critically informed approach is the key to utilising AI's potential in the realisation of sustainable and equitable advancements in art education.

Body Objectification, Self Esteem and Life Satisfaction among Young Adults

Aleena Tahreem — 2025-06-06

The study aimed to find the relationship between body objectification, self-esteem, and life satisfaction among adults. Body objectification has risen consideration in the past few decades as we continue to change our society through cultural norms, technological development and media. The sample of 274 young adults, of same number of males and females (137 each) from different universities of Faisalabad. In this study a cross-sectional research and purposive sampling technique was used. The Rosenberg self-esteem scale, objectified body consciousness scale and satisfaction with life were used for data collection. Results indicates that body objectification strongly affects both self-esteem and life satisfaction of young adults. Body objectification levels at high intensity correlated with reduced self-esteem and lowered life satisfaction which demonstrates the negative consequences of harmful body-related perspectives on total wellness. This research demonstrates the necessity to address body image problems while developing self-esteem to boost satisfaction in life among adults.

Socio-Psychological Impacts of Polygyny on Upbringing Children, With Special Reference to Pashtun Community in Quetta, Balochistan

Rubina Kakar — 2025-06-13

The objective of the study was to analyze the socio-psychological impacts of polygyny on upbringing children within Pashtun community. Polygyny is practiced in Muslim societies with greater frequency. Its implications on the upbringing of children has not been investigated within the Pashtun community of Quetta. It was imperative to address the gap comprehensively. This study defined polygyny as marriage to multiple wives, including children aged (15 to 24) years.The research employed a qualitative methodology, using snowball sampling and semi-structured interviews to collect data from fourteen young male and female children in polygynous families. Data was analyzed through thematic process. The results demonstrated social and psychological impacts in the form of insecurity, overcrowd family environment, family disintegration and emotional distress. Two respondents exhibited social connections marked by healthy sibling relationships. The study highlighted parental absence, and adverse life experiences toward father inheritance, rivalry, jealousy and psychological suffering. This study recommended that social interventions should focus on family dynamics and promote psychological-wellbeing to overcome the unfavorable impacts of polygyny on upbringing children and highlighting the necessity for further research. Additionally, the researcher urged, the Pashtun community to review its collective perspectives inorder to reform polygynous practices in alignment with Islamic values.

Emotion across Modes in Bol: A Multimodal SFL Analysis of English Subtitles

Aiman Qadees — 2025-06-16

This study deals with an analysis of both text and images of the BOL movie (2011) by applying a multimodal discourse analysis approach proposed by Kress and Van Leeuwen’s theory (2006), as well as a systemic functional linguistic analysis approach, drawing from the theory of Halliday & Matthiessen (2014). The core objective of this study is to explore how text and images are integrated to convey interactional meanings within movies and to investigate how these elements together highlight the interpersonal meaning conveyed through textual content. The entire movie on YouTube was watched, and then screenshots of powerful, emotive scenes, along with their subtitles, were captured as data. The analysis examines five powerful emotive scenes to explore how emotions are constructed across visual and verbal modes in the Pakistani movie Bol (2011). These scenes are emotionally intense, showing the themes of domestic violence, patriarchy, gender differences, and female resistance. Each scene is analyzed based on its mood structures, visual features (gaze, angle, distance, modality, and participants), and interplay between text and images. The findings of this study unveil that the Bol movie not only conveys emotions through verbal language but also camera angles, directions, silence, and gaze. In conclusion, verbal and nonverbal language in this movie enhances the emotional intensity of the movie.

The Research Experience: A Study of Challenges Faced by M. Phil/MS Scholars at the Universities of Islamabad, Pakistan

Riffat Muhammad Ali — 2025-06-16

The research investigated the hurdles that M.Phil and MS students encounter while working on their research thesis in Social Sciences. The study adapted a quantitative method, surveying scholars across five public and five private universities in Islamabad through a structured questionnaire. A group of 100 participants was chosen via simple random sampling. Before launching the full survey, we tested the questionnaire with 20 students to refine it for clarity and reliability. After collecting the data, the analysis was done using SPSS software version 24.0, and appropriate statistical tests were employed, such as the independent sample t-test, means, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that crafting a thesis is quite challenging for postgraduates, regardless of whether they attend a public or private institution. The struggles appear to be largely the same for both groups. These challenges encompass a lack of robust research support, hurdles in writing particular thesis chapters, insufficient advisory support, and not making full use of available library resources. Based on research findings, it is recommended that universities should offer structured research training, better supervisory assistance, and improved library services. Further, it is suggested that institutions should implement specific programs empowering research students to conduct and publish good-quality work, particularly in prestigious academic journals. Such initiatives would be a boon to everyone involved, from students and faculty to educational policymakers and librarians, striving to enhance research quality.

Social media Analytical Tools: A Review of its Application, Challenges and Future Trends

Isma Anum — 2025-06-20

Social media contains a lot of user uploaded data in different formats like text, images, photos, video etc. These large volumes of data are converted in meaningful information which can be understood using different methods and tools which are called social media analytics. This paper presents the report of a social media analytics (SMA). The review conducted to find out the methods, tools Application, Challenges and Future Trends used in social media analytics, types of social media platforms which the SMA are performed and the field which SMA has been performed. Literature suggested that the social media platforms which were mostly used are twitter, Facebook, YouTube, trip advisor and blogs. Moreover, SMA has been observed in different fields like agriculture, politics, health, social and business sector. It has been observed that numerous challenges are faced by businesses in adopting social media analytical tools to support the knowledge-based business strategies. Correspondingly, the present-day corporate challenges from the perspective of social media analytics in its adoption for corporate decisions have been outlined. The paper also offers recommendations such as conducting cross-platform analysis, incorporation of AI, immediate analytics and predictive analytics in SMA for better decision making.

Legal Avenues to Protect Environment: Investigating the Pakistan Legislation

Urooj Bashir — 2025-06-21

The purpose of research is to summarize all remedies available against environmental crimes in the context of Pakistan legislation, and determine maintainability and overriding effect of the special enactments. Development and environmental damage are interconnected. The ease of life of present generation is the cost being paid by the future generations, in the shape of environmental damage. The sustainable development idea originated to maintain the equilibrium in development and the environment. As a global issue the United Nations Organization set goals, which can be achieved by the active involvement of every member states. The principle 11 and 13 of the Rio Declaration, 1992. Expressly state the responsibility and obligation of member states regarding environmental legislation. The doctrinal legal research methodology is applied to analyze the relevant laws, their interpretation by the courts and application by the government agencies. In this research article the legal options available to the aggrieve person from environmental damage is explored in the light of statutes and case laws. The result shows that the remedies are available under the Pakistan Constitution, The Environmental Protection Act, Pakistan Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code of Pakistan, and the law of Torts. Apart from these, several other acts in support of environmental protections are available. The specified functions of these acts are to control the illegal trade of wild fauna and flora, Bio Safety, Climate Change, Hospital waste management, and ensure the National environment quality standards, etc. Campaigns to raise public awareness shall begin, Environment as a compulsory subject shall be introduced, Same laws shall be repealed after making the Environmental Protection Act, 1997 (PEPA) more comprehensive and Environmental issues shall be dealt only by the Federal Government as a global issue.

Resolving Cross Border Construction Disputes: The Evolving Role of alternate Dispute Resolution

Sanaullah Aman — 2025-06-24

This paper examines how ADR has become a critical tool in resolving international construction disputes. It analyzes ADR’s transformation from a secondary option to a central strategy, emphasizing the impact of institutional frameworks, enforceability advancements, and technology. Cross-border construction projects face legal and cultural complexities. Traditional methods like litigation and arbitration present limitations—such as high costs, delays, lack of expertise, and enforcement challenges—prompting a shift toward flexible ADR methods like mediation, conciliation, and dispute boards. A doctrinal review of legal literature, institutional reports (UNCITRAL, ICC, FIDIC), and case law is used. Sources are scholarly and thematically analyzed. ADR techniques now supplement or precede litigation and arbitration. Benefits include flexibility, expertise, cost savings, and enforceability (e.g., Singapore Convention). Challenges include uneven recognition and need for skilled neutrals. It is recommended to promote ADR training, clear clauses, online platforms, and further research on ADR’s cross-border effectiveness.

Corporate Governance and Audit Quality in Islamic Banks in Emerging Asian Economies: A Literature Review

Aiman Hussain Chohan — 2025-06-27

This systematic literature review explores the relationship between corporate governance and audit quality in Islamic banks within emerging Asian economies. It focuses on how governance systems like board independence, audit committee effectiveness, and Shariah supervisory boards influence audit reliability and stakeholder confidence. Islamic banks present a unique challenge as they integrate conventional corporate governance with Shariah principles. The review synthesizes peer-reviewed literature from 2010 to 2025, drawing on agency, stakeholder, institutional, and resource dependency theories. Findings indicate that while governance structures aligned with ethical and religious oversight improve audit quality, inconsistencies in regulatory frameworks and varying institutional capacities across countries serve as critical moderators. A notable gap is observed in empirical research regarding the impact of Shariah supervisory boards on audit quality and the lack of standardized audit quality metrics. The study recommends further empirical research on the role of Shariah boards and standardized audit measures, alongside practical steps to harmonize governance frameworks and enhance institutional capacity.

Electrification: Impacts on Women's Lives in Hunza and Nagar

Rozmeen Yaseen — 2025-06-30

Electrification has a significant impact on women in every field. Electricity enables women to be more advanced and makes their lives easier by reducing their workload through technology. The study aims to explore the socio-economic impact of electrification on women in Hunza Valley. This study is qualitative, and the researcher used different qualitative tools, i.e., in-depth interviews and an interview guide. Purposive sampling was used by the researcher, and 25 women were interviewed during the fieldwork. The data of the present study were analyzed thematically, and different themes were present in the study. The findings of the study suggest that access to electricity changes the life of rural women in every field of life, such as access to electric gadgets, education, health, information, decision making, participation in income-generating activities, saved time and increased productivity, changes in developmental skills, and learning opportunities. Therefore, the process of electrification and tools linked with the electrification should be employed with modernized apparatus to facilitate women’s role in the workplace in Hunza, Gilgit Baltistan, with the aim to help enhance the well-being as well as the conditions of women.

Knowledge Management Components and its effect on Organizational Performance

Ghulam Murtaza Shah — 2025-06-30

The main objective of this research is to investigate the effect of knowledge management components on organizational performance of commercial banks in hyderabad Sindh. Recognizing knowledge as a valuable asset the research focuses on organizations invested in knowledge management components which substantially improved organizational performance. Using quantitative research approach, structured survey method is used to collect primary data. Target population was managerial staff working in commercial banks and one hundred questionnaires were distributed among different managerial cadres. Data was analyzed using composite reliability, Average variance extracted, Fornell Larcker criterion for discriminant validity, Standardized root mean square residual and Normed Fit index for model fitness and Beta, P value and T statistics for Hypotheses testing. All components of knowledge management have significant effect on organizational performance. This research is guiding tool for financial institutes looking for better organizational performances because knowledge management is a fuel of right decision making.Knowledge Management

Impact of Social Media Marketing Activities on Brand Loyalty: Exploring the Mediating Role of Brand Awareness and the Moderating Influence of Customized Age Group and Social Media Influencer

Farhan Khurshid Qureshi — 2025-06-30

The proposed study intends to investigate the influence of Social Media Marketing Activities (SMMA) on brand loyalty through mediating role of brand awareness and moderating effects of customized age groups and social media influencers. As social media has become a major marketing medium, organizations need to comprehend the effect the social media sites like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter have on consumer behavior and loyalty particularly in emerging markets and among them is Pakistan. The use of structured questionnaires involved the sample data of 260 of the social media individuals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Descriptive statistics was performed on the quantitative data using SPSS and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to examine whether relations clarified in hypotheses were present and also to test the Structural relationship of fit. Findings showed that SMMA has a positive effect on brand loyalty and that brand awareness has a huge role of mediation. As well, the effect of SMMA on awareness and loyalty was modulated by customized age groups and by popularity on the social media. Marketers are advised to employ age group-specific information and reputable ambassadors that will enhance brand consumption and loyalty.