Social Science Review Archives publishes new and original research in the fields of development studies, corporate sociology, public policy, psychology, monetary system, political science, linguistics, culture and civilizations, Management science, Islamic finance, English, education, business reforms, regulatory reforms and political economy. The Journal is interested in both theoretical and applied research. Research articles related to public administration and bureaucratic reforms are also welcomed.
Fractured Bonds and Lingering Wounds: Attachment Anxiety as a Predictor of Suicidal Ideation following Long-Term Relationship Dissolution
This study investigated the relationship between attachment anxiety and suicidal ideation following long-term relationship dissolution among Pakistani university students, with a focus on gender differences and the sociocultural context of collectivism. Grounded in attachment theory, the research tested four hypotheses regarding the predictive role of attachment anxiety in suicidality. Descriptive statistics indicated elevated mean levels of attachment anxiety (M = 119.56, SD = 42.63) and moderate suicidal ideation (M = 28.08, SD = 9.27). Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive association between attachment anxiety and suicidal ideation, r(153) = .273, p = .001, while regression analysis demonstrated that attachment anxiety significantly predicted suicidal ideation, accounting for 7.4% of the variance. Gender-specific analyses revealed that the association was significant among females but not among males, despite comparable effect sizes. These findings confirm that attachment anxiety is a significant predictor of suicidal ideation in the aftermath of relational dissolution, particularly within Pakistan’s collectivist context. The study highlights the interplay between psychological vulnerabilities and sociocultural pressures, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive interventions.
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Examining Effect of Online and Offline Perceived Social Support on Burnout in University Students
This study examined the effects of perceived online and offline social support on academic burnout among Pakistani university students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 151 students aged 18–25 years, who completed adapted items from the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS; Zimet, Dahlem, Zimet, & Farley, 1988) to assess online and offline support, and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory–Student version (OLBI-S; Demerouti, Bakker, Vardakou, & Kantas, 2003) to measure burnout. Results indicated that students reported greater offline support compared to online support, while overall burnout levels were moderate. Contrary to expectations, higher levels of both online and offline perceived support were positively associated with burnout, with multiple regression analyses showing that these two predictors jointly explained approximately 21% of the variance in burnout scores (R² = .21, p < .001). Gender-specific analyses revealed that the positive associations were stronger among men (β = .34, p < .01) than women (β = .19, p < .05). These findings suggest that rather than buffering against burnout, perceived support may reflect reactive support-seeking among students already experiencing academic strain. The results highlight the importance of considering the quality and context of support, as well as cultural and gendered dynamics in its effectiveness. Limitations include reliance on self-report measures, scale reliability concerns, and the cross-sectional design, which precludes causal inference. Future research should employ longitudinal designs to clarify whether social support functions as a protective factor or is mobilized in response to burnout. The study underscores the need for gender-sensitive interventions and a focus on enhancing the authenticity and effectiveness of both online and offline support systems in higher education.
Social Media Addiction and Academic Engagement: The Mediating Role of Self-Esteem among University Students
The fast growth of social media has significantly altered the academic and social life of university students; however, overindulgence in the sphere has caused justified fears about the psychological and academic health. Using the prism of the social comparison theory and self-esteem theory, the current question examines the complex of social media addiction and academic performance, making self-esteem an intermediate variable. The quantitative design was chosen, and the information was collected with the help of structured questionnaires among university students. The analytical stage used the IBM SPSS and the PROCESS Macro. Findings show that there is a negative correlation between social media addiction and self-esteem, and self-esteem has a positive predictive value on academic engagement. Mediation analyses establish that self-esteem moderately mediates the correlation between social media addiction and academic involvement. The outcomes of these studies highlight the urgency of adopting healthy social media behaviors and strengthening the self-esteem of the students to enhance their academic activities.
Sustainability in Practice: Furniture Upcycling as A Pedagogical Framework for Circular Design Education
The consumption of linear furniture causes a lot of waste, especially in the situations when the discarded ones are regularly delivered to the landfills even though they still have material and functional potential. To resolve this discrepancy between material worth and disposal procedures is essential to developing the strategies of the circular economy. This paper explores the topic of furniture upcycling as an environmental intervention and a pedagogic methodology of modern design education. Undergraduate design students worked in a learned studio (integrating manual fabrication and digital design tools) using a project-based learning framework to disassemble, redesign, and reassemble discarded wooden furniture. Environmental, educational, and design outcomes in terms of furniture upcycling were evaluated by means of a mixed-methods approach. Environmental assessment was done on the material recovery, landfill waste diversion, approximated carbon reductions and the durability of furniture. Questionnaires and student diaries were used to assess the outcomes of education. The results indicate that furniture upcycling is an efficient way to save the material and decrease waste, raise the awareness of sustainability, the knowledge of the circular economy, and the skill of problem-solving among students. The project led to the change in the perception of discarded furniture to a valuable design resource and enables the incorporation of discarded furniture as a tool of designing curricula and shows the possibility of community sustainability programs and environmental education.
From Policy Documents to Daily Practice: Administrators’ Perspectives on Implementing Educational Technologies in Pakistan
Policymaking in educational technology today is more focused on digital transformation, innovation, and efficiency; although the directives of policies are translated into the organizational practice, the latter is still unequal. This research investigates the views of educational administrators on the adoption of educational technologies in Pakistani education system schools and colleges with respect to policy document interpretation, negotiation and implementation in day to day administration and teaching situations. The research problem is a typical gap between the intentions on policies and their real practice in institutions. The main aim of the research was to understand the experience, interpretations, and difficulties of administrations to operationalize technology related policies. A qualitative research design was used whereby semi-structured interviews with public and private institutions administrators were conducted in order to gather data. The research presupposed that institutional capacity, leadership discretion and contextual constraints influence policy enactment, and the boundary conditions were introduced in terms of infrastructure, professional growth and accountability mechanisms. Results have shown that administrators tend to change, redefine, or choose not to follow policy directives as they do not fit the local realities leading to partial and imbalanced technology adoption. The results are not only in line with the international research on policy enactment but also provide context-specific results in Pakistan. The paper has found that administrators have a monumental negotiative role in mediating policy hopes and daily education exercise.
Parental Silence and Withdrawal in Inclusive Education: A Qualitative Exploration of Non-Participation in Pakistani Schools
Parental engagement is often considered as a pillar in the effective inclusive education, but not much attention has been paid to some parents who continue being not engaged or even disengage with the process of engaging. This paper examines the parental silence and withdrawal in inclusive primary and secondary schools in Pakistan paying attention to non-participation as a social phenomenon to be practiced but not a lack of interest. The study issue revolves around the fact that the discourse of inclusive education always focuses on interpreting the aspect of parents non-involvement as disengagement, which does not take into consideration such structural, cultural, and emotional determinants that predetermine participation. The main aim of the paper was to study the meaning of parental silence as perceived by teachers and school administrators and meaning of withdrawal as perceived and rationalized by parents. A qualitative research design was used in gathering the data which followed the semi-structured interviews with parents, teachers and school leaders of both the public and private schools in Pakistan. This study had its assumption that parental participation is mediated socially and culturally with the boundary conditions being influenced by power relations, institutional norm, and disability stigma. This finding shows that parental silence is usually a sign of fear of being labeled, distrust of institutions, and a sense of powerlessness and not apathy. These findings are based on new global findings on silent participation and bring in country specific findings in Pakistan. The research paper finds that the concept of silence as a communicational event is critical to creating more inclusive and sensitive family-school partnerships.
The Effectiveness of Entrepreneurship Ecosystem and EE Toward Enriching IG in Pakistan: The Moderating Role of EI
This paper looks into the contribution of the (DEE) towards assisting people in low-income households in Pakistan to generate income. In particular, it explores whether the involvement in a DE ecosystem can contribute to the increase in income and the promotion of entrepreneurship among the university students. The survey which was made up of 500 students of five Pakistani state universities was conducted online and analysed with the help of the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that DE has a positive impact on income-generating among B40 students in the university level. Besides, the findings show that EI moderates such that it reinforces the correlation between (DEE) and IG. In general, the research illustrates that DE with the help of technological involvement gives B40 students in Pakistan a feasible chance to earn revenues and engage in viable entrepreneurial activities. The results are valuable as they can be used by (HEI) and policymakers in order to encourage inclusive economic growth by means of (DE).
Influence of Islamization and Propaganda in Curriculum of Higher Secondary Education in Pakistan: A Study of the Sindh Textbook Board of Pakistan
The phenomenon of language is undoubtedly social, and its primary function is to facilitate interaction with the world. The content of The English Language textbook of Class 9 published by the Sindh Textbook Board of Sindh, Pakistan, under study portrays language as a rather aggressive instrument of indoctrination as well as exclusion from the dominantly marginalized categories. This study employed the CDA framework attributed to Fair Clough 1995 as a lens to expose the covert preconceptions concerning the discourse within the textbook. English in Pakistan is taught as a curriculum subject in the context of L2 Acquisition. However, the textbook language structures have interwoven and overt ideological patterns Rahman (2002). The primary target of the language textbooks is learners, with the intent to embrace indoctrination as a primary tool of Islamization and glorification of war and war heroes. This study found ‘Critical Discourse Analysis’ level pertaining to Text to be overused. The inescapable conclusion is that language textbooks owe it to users to be free from indoctrination and assist learners in developing a critical stance to provide divergent thinking necessary to sustain the ever-changing context of the modern world. Designers and policymakers are advised to concentrate on the language learning components and the content of the learning materials, rather than on content-focused instructional materials. This focus on research will help policymakers and educators conceptualize why indoctrination should be discouraged in the education process- Language, in its essence, should be taught unfiltered.
Economic Discourse and Feminism: A Study of Politeness Maxims of Blome’s Selected Speeches
This research examines the convergence of economic language and feminism through an examination of the application of Geoffrey Leech's (1983) politeness maxims to the selected speeches made by Ambassador Donald Blome. The aim is to investigate how the maxims of tact, generosity, and modesty construct an inclusive and respectful discourse that embodies feminist and humanistic principles. The study employs a qualitative, textual and discourse analysis approach, in which language is regarded as a way of constructing social meaning and constructing perception. The analysis reveals the profound impact of Blome's speeches in promoting gender equality. He repeatedly employs politeness strategies to describe economic themes in a manner that stresses cooperation, mutual respect, and gender equality. The tact maxim prevents imposition, the generosity maxim facilitates mutual good, and the modesty maxim facilitates a tone of humility and cooperation. These maxims lead to a discourse that reconciles economic aims with inclusive and feminist goals, inspiring hope for a more equitable future. The findings indicate that politeness is not only a rhetorical strategy but also a means of socio-political involvement promotion. By integrating feminist issues into economic discourse, Blome's speech promotes extended involvement and increases the economic practice's credibility. This research provides utilitarian implications in diplomatic and policy communication, demonstrating how politeness strategy can promote audience receptiveness and inclusive debate. This research is original in its integration of politeness theory, feminist discourse analysis, and diplomatic speech, an approach that remains largely unexplored in academic studies. This combination offers a structured and comprehensive understanding of the research focus.
Punishment without Reform? A Qualitative Case Study of Rehabilitation, Recidivism, and Post-Conflict Corrections in Swat Jail, Pakistan
This study is situated within the broader debate on punishment versus rehabilitation in correctional systems, with particular attention to post-conflict prison settings in Pakistan. In districts such as Swat, where incarceration is shaped by legacies of militancy, overcrowding, and limited institutional capacity, correctional practices remain largely punitive despite growing global evidence supporting rehabilitation. Understanding how inmates and correctional staff experience and perceive punishment- and rehabilitation-oriented approaches is essential for informing sustainable prison reform, improving institutional stability, and reducing recidivism. The study aims to examine the lived experiences of inmates and correctional staff in Swat Jail, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and to assess the perceived impacts of punishment and rehabilitation on inmate behavior, psychological well-being, and post-release reintegration, while situating these findings within national and international correctional frameworks. Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with inmates and correctional staff in Swat Jail and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis, guided by the Risk–Need–Responsivity (RNR) model. The findings indicate that punishment-focused correctional practices generate resentment, psychological distress, and behavioral withdrawal among inmates, often undermining institutional order rather than promoting reform. In contrast, rehabilitation-oriented interventions—including vocational training, education, psychological counseling, and moral guidance—were associated with positive behavioral change, improved mental well-being, enhanced self-worth, and greater readiness for lawful living. Correctional staff corroborated these outcomes, reporting fewer conflicts and improved cooperation among inmates engaged in rehabilitation programs. Post-release accounts further suggested that participation in rehabilitation reduced employment barriers and recidivism risk. The study concludes that punishment alone is insufficient for long-term crime reduction in post-conflict settings, and that rehabilitation represents a humane, effective, and sustainable complement to accountability. Policy implications emphasize expanding rehabilitation programs, investing in staff training, and strengthening post-release support mechanisms within Pakistan’s correctional system.
The Impacts of Sectarian Violence on the People of District Kurram
Sectarian violence remains a persistent social problem in District Kurram, affecting social cohesion, economic stability, psychological wellbeing, and access to essential services. This study examines the impacts of sectarian violence on residents of Upper, Central, and Lower Kurram using a mixed-methods approach. A total of 155 questionnaires were administered through random sampling, and five in-depth interviews were conducted to explore lived experiences. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Chi-square test, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to contextualize statistical findings. Results indicate that sectarian violence significantly disrupts community cohesion, restricts mobility, weakens livelihoods, and increases fear, trauma, and mistrust among residents. The study concludes that sectarian violence is a multidimensional social problem requiring integrated structural, psychological, and policy interventions.
Exploring Role of Principals in Managing Conflicts through Curricular and Co-Curricular Activities at Secondary School Level in District Khyber
School is a body in which different stakeholders are involved for its right functioning and due to their differences, conflicts are investable in school. This research is aimed at exploring the role of principals in managing conflicts through curricular and co-curricular activities at secondary school in district Khyber. To achieve the objectives of research, narrative research design was adopted. Total ten principals and ten teachers from districts Khyber and Orakzai were selected through purposive sampling techniques as sample. Data was collected through the conduction of semi-structured interviews and was analyzed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that principals are using different strategies for conflicts avoidance and resolution at secondary schools level. The findings of study revealed that conflicts at secondary school level are resolved through the use of proper balance between curricular and co-curricular activities. This research concluded that students’ engagement in curricular and co-curricular along with proper balance between them is the technique used by principals in managing conflicts at secondary school level in district Khyber. This study recommended that both curricular and co-curricular activities are important for smooth operation of schools and policy makers may initiate proper balancing mechanism for their inclusion in daily timetable.
How Robust is the Developing Doctrine of Corporate Criminal Liability in Pakistan, and to What Extent Can Legal Persons Be Effectively Investigated and Sanctioned Under the Current Procedural Framework?
This research article provides a critical analysis of the developing doctrine of corporate criminal liability in Pakistan. It examines the robustness of the legal framework, primarily anchored in the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and the Companies Act 2017, and evaluates the extent to which legal persons can be effectively investigated and sanctioned under the current procedural architecture. The analysis reveals a doctrine that is formally established but practically frail, characterized by statutory recognition coexisting with profound enforcement challenges. Key impediments include reliance on the restrictive "identification principle," fragmented and capacity-constrained investigative agencies, and sanctions that lack deterrence and proportionality. The article identifies significant research gaps, notably the absence of empirical data on enforcement outcomes and the need for a systematic evaluation of regulatory coordination. It proposes a mixed-methods research methodology combining doctrinal, comparative, and empirical approaches to generate actionable insights. The study concludes that while Pakistan has laid a normative foundation aligned with international obligations, substantive reform is imperative to translate legal liability into effective corporate accountability.
Evaluating the Efficacy of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) Doctrine in the Prevention of Mass Atrocity Crimes
Mass atrocity crimes prevention remains one of the major dilemmas facing the current international law and world governance. Following the deceptions of the international community to prevent genocides and rampant crimes against civilians in the late twentieth century, the concept of Responsibility to Protect (R2P) became a normative approach that aimed at balancing the sovereignty of states and the duty to protect of the population against genocides, crimes against humanity, and war-related crimes as well as ethnic cleansing. This study attempts a critical evaluation of the effectiveness of R2P in preventing crimes against humanity on mass scales using factors such as legal underpinnings, institutionalization and field practice. The study places R2P in the context of the whole development of international law, and questions its historical precursors with the international humanitarian law, international criminal law and international human rights law and its formal recognition in the United Nations world summit in 2005. It breaks down the tripartite structure of R 2 P and appraises how the principle of sovereignty and non- interception theories as mutually supportive has been transformed by the doctrine in question. This investigation, by selectively questioning the main case studies, such as Libya (2011), Syria, Myanmar (the Rohingya crisis) and the Israel Palestine situation, reveals the asymmetric application of R2P and the powerful impact of the politics in the United Nations Security Council. Its results fill in a long-term gap between the normative promise of R2P and its empirical results. Though the doctrine has elicited much discussion about atrocity prevention, early warning, and accountability measures, it has not been able to prevent and end the mass atrocity crimes at all times. Pickiness, Council of Security paralysis and militarization fears and shortage in accountability still puts limits on its success. Nonetheless, the principle that sovereignty contains duties and that mass atrocity crimes are the matters that ought to have a lawful international interest has been reiterated through R2P.The article finds that R2P is not a legal rule but a passing normative tool that is mainly a soft-law tool. It argues that the strengthening of R2P requires further emphasis on the preventive elements, the legal boundaries of the step, the restrictive use of the veto in the cases of atrocities, and the increased collaboration with the stakeholders in the regions and the country. The solution to these dilemmas can help R2P to better fulfill its initial mandate in guaranteeing the populations of states against extreme violence without undermining legitimacy of the international law order.
The Influence of Flexible Working Hour Arrangements and Work-Life Balance on Job Satisfaction
The study analyzes the relationship using a pragmatic mixed method approach between organizational work models and employees’ job satisfaction. Data collected from two companies in Pakistan: Novatex, which runs under flexible arrangements of work, and Aromarts, which follows a fixed schedule of work. Quantitative data, collected through structural questions (Q5 – Q15), revealed a strong positive relation between flexible work arrangements and job satisfaction. Regression analysis further indicated that flexibility is an important predictor of employees’ satisfaction, while work life balance did not mediate in relationships between fixed schedules and satisfaction. Hypothesis testing supported H1, confirmed the positive effects of flexible arrangements, while rejecting H2 and H3, which indicates the fixed scheduled do not significantly improve satisfaction and that work life balance does not work as a mediator in this context. Qualitative results from semi-structured interviews with HR professionals highlight three main themes autonomy, work life balance, and organizational support which align with quantitative results. These insights show that flexible enhance employees control their systems, reduces stress, and supports high overall satisfaction. The study concluded that implementing flexible work structures is beneficial for the well being of employees and should be preferred in modern human resource policies. By connecting both quantitative and qualitative perspectives, research provides a comprehensive understanding of how flexible work models affect employees’ satisfaction and offer practical guidance for organizations trying to improve work force management and performance.
Economic Determinants Influencing the Adoption of Environmental Sustainability in Construction Projects: Empirical Evidence from Punjab, Pakistan
Construction industry is an important factor in the economic growth and infrastructural development of the developing economies, but its high pace has negatively impacted the environment because of the poor adaption of sustainable construction standards. Although the growing focus on environmental sustainability is being witnessed across the globe, its introduction in construction projects in the developing-country setting is limited by economic factors. This paper analyses the economic factors that determine the implementation of environmental sustainability in building projects in Punjab, Pakistan, based on triple bottom line approach. The quantitative cross-sectional research design was used and 100 construction project engineers were used as primary data by a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis in SPSS were used to analyze the data. The empirical findings show that high initial cost of sustainable materials negatively impact the adoption of sustainability (β = -0.41, p < 0.01), which means that the sector is very sensitive to costs. Lack of financial incentives and government subsidies also exhibit a strong negative correlation with sustainability adoption (β = -0.29, p < 0.05), which supports the tendency of firms to use traditional methods of construction. Less confidence in the return on investment also has a negative impact on adoption decisions (β = -0.33, p = 0.01) especially on those projects with short financial goals. Stakeholder demand, by contrast, has a positive, though less significant impact on sustainability adoption (β = 0.18, p < 0.05), which indicates low levels of market awareness and client pressure to go green with construction. The regression model can account about 62 percent of the change in sustainability (R 2 = 0.62), which highlights the preeminent role of economic factors on any sustainability-related decision. Its results offer solid empirical evidence based on the situation in developing countries, and emphasize how specific financial contributions, subsidy systems, and policy measures are necessary to make rapid progress towards the use of environmentally friendly construction methods.
Reevaluating the Meritocracy Myth: How Promotion Criteria, Algorithmic Scoring, and Generative-AI Screening Shape Long-Term Organizational Productivity
This study re-examined the assumption that promotion systems and advanced HR technologies operate under neutral meritocratic principles. It explored how formal promotion criteria, algorithmic scoring tools, and generative-AI screening shaped long-term organizational productivity, with particular attention to perceptions of fairness, transparency, and legitimacy. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining survey data from employees, managers, and HR professionals with qualitative interviews from AI-enabled organizations. Quantitative analysis revealed that although algorithmic and AI-driven HR processes increased administrative efficiency and consistency, these technologies did not independently predict higher productivity. Instead, perceived fairness and transparency emerged as significantly stronger predictors of employee engagement and productivity outcomes. Regression analysis further indicated that fairness perceptions exerted the largest influence on productivity compared with algorithmic scoring and AI screening mechanisms. Qualitative findings supported these results, showing that employees were more likely to accept AI-mediated decisions when clear explanations, human oversight, and accessible appeals processes were present. Conversely, opaque or fully automated systems were associated with distrust, perceived bias, and weaker motivational outcomes. The study concluded that AI should complement, rather than replace, human decision-makers and that responsible governance frameworks were necessary to ensure equity and sustained performance benefits. Recommendations focused on transparency design, hybrid decision structures, bias audits, and digital literacy development. Future research was suggested in cross-cultural contexts, longitudinal adoption effects, and explainable-AI applications in HR decision-making.
Decoherence Control in Open Quantum Systems for Scalable Quantum Technologies
Quantum communication provides essentially secure transmission of information and quantum sensing provides measurement sensitivities better than classical. These powers come because of unique quantum processes, especially superposition and entanglement. Although there is a significant theoretical and experimental development, the phenomenon of decoherence is still one of the main limiting factors in performance and scalability of quantum devices. The importance of this study is that it considers an active approach to decoherence as one of the key impediments to scalable quantum technologies. Although the research on the noise sources and error mechanisms has been done extensively, the characterization is not enough to be applied to the real world. This study makes use of a theoretical and computation effort to explore scalable quantum technologies integrated decoherence control strategies. The research paper is based on the open quantum systems framework, in which quantum systems are represented as finite-dimensional systems that interact with the external environment. The findings of the study highlight that active decoherence control plays an important role in enhancing performance of open quantum systems. Without any control, the simulated quantum system is characterized by a fast decoherence time, coherence times are short, about 20 u ms, and the physical error rate is about 2.5%. The hybrid strategy is a feasible way to achieve fault-tolerant quantum operation and the transition point between theory-based control architectures and experimental hardware limitations, thus speeding up the development of reliable large-scale quantum technologies. The findings affirm that each of the isolated methods like dynamical decoupling, quantum error correction, or reservoir engineering can only be a partial solution when used alone. Adaptive and real-time control schemes responding dynamically to changing noise environments also require further research to develop them.
The Impact of Training and Development on Employee Performance
This research is about understanding the role of training and development in improving employee performance at Bank Al Habib. The study was mainly carried out to check if training sessions and development activities actually help employees do their jobs better in the banking sector. For this purpose, a quantitative method was followed. The data was gathered through a questionnaire that had 26 questions. These questions were related to employee training, development practices, and overall job performance. The study was conducted using a sample of 150 employees working at Bank Al Habib. After collecting the data, it was analyzed with statistical techniques similar to SPSS, such as descriptive statistics, reliability testing, correlation, and regression analysis. The results showed that both training and development have a positive and significant effect on employee performance. However, development was found to have a slightly stronger impact when compared to training. The reliability test also showed that the questionnaire was consistent, while the correlation results indicated strong positive relationships between the study variables. Overall, the findings highlight that continuous training and development programs play an important role in improving employee efficiency, productivity, and job performance. The study concludes that proper investment in human resource development is very important for improving organizational performance in the banking sector. Based on these results, practical recommendations have been suggested for Bank Al Habib to further improve its training and development practices.
Early Identification of Hearing Loss in Children and its Impact on language Development
Hearing loss in early childhood can significantly impede language acquisition, cognitive development, and social integration, making timely detection a critical public health priority. Early identification is associated with improved language outcomes, yet many children experience delays in diagnosis, limiting the effectiveness of interventions. This study aimed to examine the impact of early identification of hearing loss on language development in children. A mixed-methods design was employed, involving 120 children aged 6 months to 5 years with permanent hearing loss, divided into early (≤6 months) and late (>6 months) identification groups. Standardized language assessments, including the Preschool Language Scale-5 and MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventories, were used to evaluate expressive and receptive language. Auditory performance was measured through aided audiometry and speech perception tests, while qualitative interviews with parents and clinicians captured intervention experiences and family engagement. Results indicated that children identified early achieved significantly higher scores in both expressive and receptive language domains, demonstrated better auditory performance, and required fewer compensatory interventions than those identified later. Regression analysis confirmed age at diagnosis as a strong independent predictor of language outcomes, even after controlling for socioeconomic and environmental factors. Qualitative findings highlighted that timely intervention and active parental involvement were key facilitators of successful language development. In conclusion, early identification of hearing loss markedly enhances language development and auditory outcomes in children. Future research should explore long-term cognitive and social outcomes and develop accessible, family-centered intervention strategies to ensure equitable support for all children with hearing impairment.
استدلال بالحدیث اور مکتب فقہ مالکی وشافعی (Deriving Rules From The Hadith and Malki,Shafi School of Jurisprudence)
The process of deriving rulings from hadiths and the role of gentleness in such derivations have been examined and verified. There is a notable diversity in the methods of derivation and inference, a variation that existed even among the Companions. Differences in interpretation stem from varying understandings of the texts and differing identifications of the causes or contexts within the hadiths. Similar variations are found among other Islamic scholars and jurists, including the four prominent imams. This article reviews the methods of derivation and inference specific to the Malki,Shafi school of jurisprudence, exploring the principles and rules employed in inferring rulings.
Parental Socioeconomic Status and Digital Academic Engagement of University Students in AJK, Pakistan
The research question is the ways in which socioeconomic status of parents affects access of and utilization of digital academic services by the university students and their satisfaction with the services and challenges they face in the institutions of higher learning in Azar Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan. This work is the result of increased importance of the digital tools in the academic use as well as the overall trend of the digital divide which seems to be correlated with socioeconomic differences. A sample size of 124 university students was picked and the structured questionnaire was carried to them, chosen of various backgrounds. It gathered socio-demographic variables, SES variables (parents education level, occupation, and household income), and digitization access variables (ownership of devices, availability of internet, frequency of use, and number of hours of use per day) and variables of satisfaction (perceived effectiveness, effects of performance, and availability). The initial descriptive statistics was that students who belonged to higher SES families possessed their own personal devices, had good access to internet, and used the digital resources more often than those belonging to lower SES-groups. Chi-square test and ANOVA tests revealed that the digital satisfaction and internet access were dependent on income and education. Lastly, the level of SES groups experienced a higher number of barriers such as financial and lack of connectivity, as well as institutional support that added to the structural discrimination of digital access. The results indicate that this should be done through policy formulation, the institutional investments in infrastructures and developing insights in digital literacy so that the accrued benefits of the entire population can be equally obtained by all and inclusive in accessing to digital educational materials.
Class Privilege and Female Autonomy: Economic Independence as Feminist Resistance in Pride and Prejudice and Unmarriageable
This article examines how class privilege mediates women's capacity for resistance in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice (1813) and Soniah Kamal's Unmarriageable (2019), analyzing the complex relationship between economic resources and feminist autonomy. Through comparative textual analysis grounded in Marxist feminist and intersectional frameworks, the study demonstrates that while both Elizabeth Bennet and Alys Binat employ intellectual resistance against patriarchal marriage pressures, their ability to sustain such resistance depends fundamentally on class advantages unavailable to less privileged women. The analysis reveals that Charlotte Lucas's pragmatic marriage and the employment constraints faced by the Binat sisters illustrate how economic vulnerability forecloses genuine choice, making resistance a luxury of the relatively privileged. By comparing Regency England's entailment system with contemporary Pakistan's dowry culture, the article shows that despite temporal and cultural differences, economic dependence remains the primary mechanism through which patriarchy constrains female agency. The findings contribute to comparative feminist literary criticism by demonstrating that representations of female autonomy must account for class stratification; protagonists' triumphant endings depend on fortunate circumstances that most women do not enjoy, revealing the limitations of individualist feminist resistance without systemic economic change.
Lexiconal Research of Al-Muddasar (الْمُدَّثِّرُ)
To earn fame and popularity among Muslim people, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Pervaiz got himself in deep research of Quranic teachings, for about fifty years, as a result of which, he wrote, several books, that added feathers to his reputation. His literature won great acceptance from the western secular and atheist scholars, but an intense opposition and repugnance from the theological Muslim scholars of all over the Muslim world, due to the fact, that Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Pervaiz absolutely misinterpreted the Holy Quran, based on his Quranic lexicon لغات القرآن , full of falsification, because the meaning of Quranic words in this book لغات القرآن , have mercilessly been altered. Here is a Quranic word المدثر , grammatically it belongs to measure تفعل , but during its lexiconal research, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Pervaiz, alleviated this word, deliberately or mistakenly, regarding it to be on the measure of تفعیل , it is the same pattern, on which the real sense of word المزمل was absolutely distorted. However, the writer of this treatise, has tried his best, not only to unveil and explain the real purport of this word المدثر , but also to expose the fallacies, flaws and faults, committed by Ghulam Ahmad Pervaiz in his lexiconal research.
Emotional Intelligence (EI) as a Predictor of Individual Work Performance: A Higher-Order Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) Approach
The objective of the research was to examine the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Individual Work Performance (IWP) among medical professionals serving at teaching hospitals of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. The design applied was a quantitative approach where data was gathered from 377 medical doctors who were involved in clinical and teaching services in three public teaching hospitals and three private teaching hospitals within district Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The data was analyzed through Smart-PLS 4.1 by using Higher-Order Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). By so doing the EI and IWP have been modeled as multidimensional constructs with four sub-dimensions (Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Management of EI; Task, Contextual, Adaptive, and Counterproductive performance of IWP). The results of the structural model analysis confirm a positive and statistically significant relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Individual Work Performance as the correlation between EI and IWP has a positive and significant path coefficient (β = 0.868). Therefore, the research study can be included into the field of knowledge associated with the subject of Healthcare Management by demonstrating that Emotional Intelligence is not the collection of supplementary features but the primary cause of professional resilience and better service delivery in health setting of the KP’s teaching hospitals. The results provide valid empirical basis on the idea that in the models of medical residency programs and professional development, the emotional intelligence training should be included by the hospital administrators to establish a stable performance in a resource-restricted medical environment.
Climate-Induced Migration and Urban Poverty in Pakistan: Evidence from ARDL Time-Series Analysis
In developing countries, climate change has become a major source of internal displacement and socio-economic exposure and has important implications on urban poverty. Pakistan is considered as one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world and has encountered frequent floods, temperature rises, and even greater variability of rainfall, which have had devastating effects on rural livelihoods and rural-urban migration. This is an empirical study that investigates the effect of climate caused migration on City poverty in Pakistan between 1990-2025. The time-series data used is annual; the bounds-testing method of Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) is used to derive the estimate of long run relationships, and an Error Correction Model (ECM) is used to represent short run dynamics. The findings verify the existence of stable long run relationship between climate variables, migration induced urbanisation and urban poverty. The mean temperature and precipitation are observed to have positive and significant impacts on urban poverty meaning that climatic stress is a worsening factor to poverty outcomes. These findings are supported by short-run outcomes, and the error correction mechanism suggests that the adjustment to the long-run equilibrium occurs rather fast. The research concludes that climate change is a multiplier of poverty in Pakistan through migration of rural climate shocks into urban deprivation. The results emphasise the need to implement combined measures that can be used to enhance the climate resilience of the rural area, deal with migration, and create inclusive and climate-resilient cities.
Integration of Digital Tools and AI in STEAM Education: A Comparative Analysis
This current research paper explores the application of digital devices and artificial intelligence (AI) in the functioning of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) educators through comparative analysis of two groups of teachers: those actively using digital and AI-based instruction tools and those who do not. Although some parts of the world are at a global path towards technology-enabled learning, many gaps still exist in the research regarding the impact of these tools on STEAM pedagogy, teacher competence, student engagement, and classroom innovations. To resolve such vacuums, the study uses the Independent Sample t -tests to determine statistically significant differences between the two groups on a variety of key dimensions, such as instructional efficacy, assessment policies, perceived challenges, and the global efficacy of the self implementing STEAM education. The evidence shows that teachers who use digital and artificial intelligence are characterized by a much greater degree of teaching creativity, increased efficiency of classroom management, and more extensive application of multifaceted and interdisciplinary tasks. But the underlying systemic obstacles comprising limited access to professional training, lack of proper infrastructure and formalised policy provision is rife in both groups despite their adoption of technology. This comparative analysis can be productive in the literature on STEAM, as it provides evidence-based information on the transformative nature of digital and AI integration. Moreover, it contains practical recommendations of teacher professional growth, institutional capacity development and future research directions of honing the role of technology on STEAM-based education.
From Connectivity to Dependency: A Comparative Analysis of China's BRI through CPEC in Pakistan and Hambantota in Sri Lanka
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a Chinese-launched project in 2013 that is a revolution in connecting, trading, and influencing Eurasia and the world at large. This paper attempts a comparative examination of BRI implications on two South Asian key developing economies, Pakistan as a participant, via project China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Sri Lanka via the Hambantota Port projects. Based on qualitative case studies and secondary data between the period of 2020 and 2026, the study will discuss how the BRI facilitates economic integration and the promotion of infrastructure building and in the process redefines the regional power relations. The main findings are to focus on the better energy security, the creation of employment opportunities, and the connection of the regions to each other, contrasted with the threat of the dependency on debt, the issues of sovereignty, and the growth of the Sino-Indian competition. CPEC forms better strategic relationships with China but worsens the relationship with India regarding the contested territories in Pakistan. The debt relief measures in Sri Lanka have increased perceptions of the so-called debt-trap diplomacy, and it is changed in Indian Ocean geopolitics. This paper highlights the multipurpose nature of the BRI as an economic facilitator and instrument of the revisionist objectives of China hence threatening the hegemony of the United States and India in South Asia. Suggestions on sustainable management of debts and multilateral control as solutions to reduce the risks are included, as a part of the extensive debates on world infrastructure projects and their geopolitical impacts.
Linguistic Hybridization in Pakistani English Newspapers
English is an international language of business, education, science and technology. In Pakistan people use Urdu words in English language to perform various functions in their local context. People of any bilingual society borrow cultural or political words and use them in foreign language. As Haugen (1950) says borrowing is an attempt; used by a speaker to reproduce in one language patterns which he has learnt in another. This research highlights inclusion of Urdu words in English newspapers published in Pakistan through descriptive analysis by enlisting them. Data has been collected from two most famous and widely read English newspapers in Pakistan: THE DAWN and THE DAILY TIMES. The research is beneficial for those individuals and institutions who are involved in teaching, learning, assessing and language policymaking. It gives an insight about inclusion of Urdu words in English newspapers for setting borrowing strategies and developing acceptance mechanism for inclusion of local flavor.
Metaphors of Ashes and Rebirth: Existential Healing and Ecological Regeneration in Shafak’s The Island of Missing Trees
Recent trends in literary criticism demonstrate a continued interest in the intersections of trauma, memory, and ecology, particularly in postcolonial and diasporic narrative traditions. In The Island of Missing Trees, Shafak’s novel situates individual and collective grief within a living, breathing world of ecological presence, especially from the fig tree’s “non-human” narrative voice. This study examines the novel’s exploration of existential crisis stemming from cultural dislocation, intergenerational pain, and postcolonial identities. It explores how metaphors of ecology operate not merely for semiotic flourish but for narrative purpose, mediating grief, memory, and continuity rather than mere separation or division. At its most fundamental, the research project endeavors to understand how Shafak’s ecological narrative practice reshapes the notion of trauma as a process with non-human temporalities. Focusing on textual critique using principles of existential humanism, trauma theory, and ecocritical approaches, the project examines explanatory narrative events mediated through silence, migration, and memory using the fig tree’s narrative voices. In so doing, the text connects personal to collective memory through the fig tree’s voices against the spatial, temporal shifts between places and time. In doing so, it becomes evident from this research that the fig tree stands not merely for passive meaning but is instead a constitutive factor initiating events from crisis spaces towards opportunities for continuity rather than closure. By so situating, this research projects a healing practice from belonging, relational, and ecological frameworks. By maintaining a narrative interface between memory and ecology, this research project continues the work related to postcolonial literary study, trauma narrative study, and environmental humanities to recognize the capacity for literary practice regarding postcolonial narrative traditions towards coexistence with responsibility for past historical, environmental experiences.
Haunted Histories and Wounded Time: Subaltern Mourning and Postcolonial Resistance in The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida
This article examines Shehan Karunatilaka's The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida through the critical lenses of postcolonial theory and Derridean hauntology in order to explore how spectrality functions as a kind of historical critique and ethical resistance in post-conflict Sri Lanka. In the context of civil war, political repression, and forced forgetting, the book explores suppressed histories, silenced voices, and unresolved collective trauma through the ghost of the murdered photojournalist Maali Almeida. Drawing from Jacques Derrida's concept of hauntology, the study argues that the novel subverts linear temporality through what is called "wounded time," a temporal condition in which the past persistently invades the present and rejects the closure or reconciliation imposed by narratives supported by the state. The analysis highlights the limitations of postcolonial transitional justice and the weakness of official historiography by demonstrating how the novel's haunting blurs the boundaries between presence and absence, life and death. By transforming the afterlife into a political arena where repressed truths, forgotten memories, and unacknowledged grief resurface, Maali's spectral journey becomes a sort of subaltern testimony. Photography and storytelling are counter-archival practices that preserve truth outside of institutional control and uphold the ethical necessity of remembrance. The article concludes by arguing that The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida presents a hauntopolitical vision in which remembering becomes a civic duty and mourning becomes an act of resistance. The novel reimagines postcolonial healing as a process that necessitates listening to history's ghosts rather than silencing them by emphasizing the voices of the deceased and vanished.
Strategic Human Resource Management and Organizational Success: A Study of Turnover, Productivity, and Economic Outcomes
In the recent scholarship, Human Resource Management (HRM) has come to be more and more recognized as a strategic activity that can have a significant impact on the behavior of employees, the effectiveness of organizations, and long-term economic results. The current treatise presents a thorough re-statement of how HRM practices influence employee turnover, organizational performance and economic performance with specific reference given to organizations in developing economies. The mixed-methods research design was used to collect quantitative information among HR professionals and managers and qualitative information among senior executives. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was called on to question both direct and indirect relationships among the major variables. Based on the Resource-Based View (RBV), Human Capital Theory, and the Ability-Motivation-Opportunity (AMO) model, the results indicate that a strategic- oriented HRM practices significantly reduce the intention to leave, increase the organizational productivity and economic performance. Moreover, HRM practices and financial results are connected through organizational productivity to some extent. The research has a substantive contribution to the strategic HRM literature, because it combined various dimensions of performance into one analytic framework, without losing references to the original sources; it included other quality scholarly sources. The article has good theoretical input and practical implications to managers and policymakers who want to attain sustainable organizational performance by using efficient HRM systems.
Empowering Rural Women through Microfinance and Skills Development: Evidence from the Sarhad Rural Support Program in District Karak
This study examines how the Sarhad Rural Support Program (SRSP) has succeeded in enhancing access to microfinance and skill development opportunities by women in the District Karak to get employment. Pakistan has a high level of socio-cultural restrictions among rural women restricting their economic activities. Vocational training and financial assistance are some of the SRSP interventions that will help women to become more skilled, confident, and independent. Considering it to be a qualitative study, the study utilized primary data in the form of 12 in-depth interviews (IDIs) and 6 focus group discussions (FGDs) using 30 participants of Tehsil Karak and Tehsil Takht-e-Nasrati. The information was gathered using the Pashto language and then translated into English. Thematic analysis revealed that there were ten major themes, which are skill development, entrepreneurship by microfinance, income generating, household decision-making, collaboration, community recognition, psychological empowerment, cultural barriers, financial independence, intergenerational influence, and sustainable empowerment. The results mean that the economic contribution, self-confidence, and social identity of women have improved greatly owing to the program of SRSP. This paper builds on Microfinance Theory and Women Empowerment Theory by citing how well-planned interventions can facilitate sustainable socio-economic development in conservative rural setting.
Myths and Realities about Swat Conflict: An Oral History
This study employs oral history methodology to explore the lived experiences and personal narratives of male residents affected by the Swat conflict (2007–2009) in Pakistan. Through in-depth interviews with 14 male victims from various tehsils of Swat, the research examines how the conflict was framed and perceived by those who suffered it. Using thematic analysis, the study identifies key narrative frames, including systemic deception, dual victimization, state failure, Taliban deceit, and media portrayal. Findings reveal that civilians perceived both the military and the Taliban as collaborators in a pre-planned conflict, leading to severe socio-economic, psychological, and infrastructural devastation. The research also analyzes the role of local, national, and international media, highlighting their biases, censorship, and failure to represent civilian suffering accurately. The study concludes that the Swat conflict was not merely a territorial struggle but a profound assault on the social effects of the region, with media acting as a tool of state propaganda rather than a voice for the victims.
Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Career Decision Self-Efficacy among Pakistani University Students
University students frequently encounter complex career-related decisions that require emotional regulation, self-awareness, and confidence in handling uncertainty. Emotional intelligence (EI) is increasingly recognized as an important psychological resource that may support effective decision-making and strengthen self-beliefs in career planning. Career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) reflects students’ confidence in completing essential career decision tasks, and identifying its predictors is particularly relevant in the Pakistani higher education context. This study examined emotional intelligence as a predictor of overall career decision self-efficacy and its key domains among Pakistani university students. A cross-sectional correlational design was used with 312 university students (174 females, 138 males), aged 18–26 years (M = 21.43, SD = 2.11). Emotional intelligence was measured using the Urdu-adapted Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale, while CDSE was assessed using the Urdu version of the Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale–Short Form. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and linear regression analyses. Emotional intelligence showed significant positive associations with overall CDSE and its domains, including self-appraisal, occupational information, goal selection, planning, and problem-solving (r = .45–.53, p < .001). Regression results indicated that EI significantly predicted overall CDSE (R² = .28, β = .53, p < .001), as well as each CDSE domain (R² = .22–.28, p < .001). These findings suggest that emotional intelligence is a meaningful predictor of career decision self-efficacy among Pakistani university students. Integrating emotional skills training into university-based career guidance may strengthen students’ confidence in career planning and decision-making.
Performance Analysis of Graphene-Reinforced Composite Laminate Wing Skin Using Fluid-Structure Interaction
The development of new aerospace materials has increased the use of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRPs) that have a high strength-to-weight ratio. Nevertheless, the current CFRPs have restrictions on stiffness, damage tolerance, and thermal performance in dynamic loading. The influence of graphene-reinforced CFRP composite wing skins on structural and aerodynamic performance is studied using a validated Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) model. To investigate a Selig S1223 airfoil of realistic aerodynamic loading, a coupled Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) framework was created. There were four wing skin designs studied. Conventional CFRP (CWS), Sandwich Composite with Honeycomb (CWSwHC), and Advanced Laminate without Graphene and Graphene-Reinforced CFRP (G-CFRP). The findings indicate that the addition of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) at 1 wt. The percentage causes a total deformation of about 35 percent, equivalent elastic strain of 40 percent, and equivalent stress up to 50 percent, to be lower than that of a regular CFRP. The enhanced composite made by enhancing with graphene shows better load distribution, better stiffness, and better aeroelastic consistency, which shows its potential in the next generation light-weight and high-performance aerospace structure.
Developing Hybrid Digital Mentorship Models and Micro-Credentialing: A Framework For Professional Excellence and Burnout Prevention
Despite the benefits of mentoring programs, numerous studies have revealed that traditional mentorship programs often encounter difficulties and fail to meet the needs of all educators, resulting in teacher burnout and reduced opportunities for professional excellence. (Gobena, 2022, Monir and Amin, 2018). These challenges include unclear expectations for mentees, a lack of motivation among mentors, limited feedback exchange and poor-quality guidance. Indeed, educators may be reluctant to provide constructive criticism because they are worried about projecting a positive image or being completely open about the current state of the mentoring relationship. Micro-credentials exhibit significant promise with the rise of professional learning strategies for educators. Micro-credentialing and mentorship models together set a learning course that is personalized, relevant, result-oriented, unbiased, scalable, and flexible (Almond, 2020). Therefore, to fulfill the study’s aim, conventional mentorship challenges are addressed to illuminate a transformative change in the hybrid digital mentorship model program and micro-credentialing via Moodle practiced in the contemporary world. A mixed-method design is employed to explore the depth and diversity of experiences. The quantitative data is collected from 50 male and female participants across different colleges and universities in Muscat using the 5-Likert type scale questionnaire, focusing on the following key dimensions: perceptions of micro-credentials, quality of digital mentorship, the usability of Moodle, professional excellence, and burnout prevention. Additionally, the qualitative data consists of open-ended responses, which investigate the mentors’ and mentees’ views on the most vital concerns of mentoring for the effectiveness of the practices. The researchers provided the Participants with an information sheet detailing the study’s purpose, voluntary participation, and assurance of confidentiality and anonymity. This study contributes to the understanding of digital mentorship dynamics and the utilization of collaboration platforms and communication tools to provide insights for enhancing mentorship practices and outcomes via micro-credentialing.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Inclusion Models for Students with Learning Disabilities
This paper presents a discussion on the performance of inclusion models in improving the academic and social performance of learners with learning disabilities in general school curriculums. The study was conducted to establish the perceptions of the teachers, institutional support and the overall effectiveness of inclusive practices in both the public and the private schools. The data were gathered with the help of a quantitative descriptive design and the questionnaire structured to gather information about 200 educators and administrators. Descriptive statistics as well as t-tests and ANOVA were used to test the relationship between teacher preparedness, institutional support and inclusion outcomes. The results showed overall positive views on inclusion, high student integration and social inclusion ratings. Nevertheless, the lack of training opportunities, big classes and inadequate resources within the institution were cited as the primary causes of failure. Formally trained teachers who had more experience showed more positive perceptions in inclusive education. The research arrives at the conclusion that sustained professional growth, institutional facilitation, and fair distribution of resources are the essential factors to the realization of effective and sustainable practice of inclusive education.
Caregiver Mental Health, Adaptive Skills, and Therapeutic Engagement in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Caregivers are essential in influencing developmental patterns and treatment outcomes in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); nevertheless, caregiver mental health has not been adequately integrated into the autism intervention literature and practice. They were based on the family-centered and transactional development frameworks, and this study analyzed the direct and indirect connections between the mental health of caregivers, therapeutic engagement, and adaptive skills among children with ASD. The cross-sectional type of quantitative design was adopted, which entailed a total of 312 caregivers with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD and children aged between 3 and 12 years. Mental health mental health of the caregiver (stress, anxiety, and depressive syndrome) and therapeutic contact (attendance, in-session participation, and home-based implementation) and adaptive skills of the child (communication, daily skills, and socialization) were measured using standardized measures. The analysis of data was done with descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, multiple regression analysis, and mediation analysis with bootstrapping. The findings showed that greater amounts of caregiver psychological distress were strongly linked with reduced levels of therapeutic engagement and poor adaptive functioning in all domains. There was a positive relationship between therapeutic engagement and adaptive communication, daily living skills, and socialization. Mediation analyses revealed that therapeutic engagement mediated the relationship between caregiver mental health and child adaptive skills with significant indirect effects found among all adaptive domains. Interestingly, mental health of caregivers remained having a considerable direct effect on adaptive outcomes, which implies a direct and an engagement-mediated influence. These results emphasize the role of caregiver mental health as a severe determinant of intervention participation and development of adaptive skills in the children with ASD. By incorporating mental health assistance of caregivers into the services of autism intervention, it can be expected that therapeutic adherence and maximization of functional outcomes might be achieved.
Implementation Barriers and Affordances of ChatGPT Adoption Among Primary Teachers in Rural Versus Urban Public Government Schools in Pakistan
The mixed-method research was investigating barriers and affordances of implementation of ChatGPT among primary teachers in rural and urban public government schools in Pakistan. Based on the survey responses of 150 primary school educators and semi structured interviews of 20 teachers, having an equal ratio of rural and urban settings, the study pinpointed serious infrastructure, pedagogical, and systemic determinants that affected the integration of ChatGPT. The results showed a significant urban-rural difference in technology access among the teachers, with the rural teachers being severely limited regarding their access to internet connectivity (17% of have access against 78% in urban areas), electricity access, and device access. Nevertheless, the two settings acknowledged the efficiency and content differentiation as well as the engagement of students in the planning of lessons using ChatGPT. Among the barriers were poor technical infrastructure, insufficient formal training, strict curriculum policies, and equity and overdependence of the student concerns. Reduced time of planning, customized content generation, and mixed-ability classroom support were the identified affordances. The paper has arrived at the conclusion that the context-specific infrastructure investment and scaled teacher training models, together with inclusive policies to deal with the digital divide, are needed to implement sustainable integration of ChatGPT in Pakistani state schools. The recommendations are aimed at policymakers, school administrations, and educators to make AI adoption in different resources settings equal.
Reconceptualizing AI in English Language: Prospects and Challenges in Higher Education
Higher education has been transformed very rapidly by AI and more so in English language teaching and learning. This paper reconceptualizes the role of AI in English language education on the opportunities and issues of AI in higher education. In accordance with the existing studies, the literature review determines the possibilities of AI to enhance the process of the personalized learning, translanguaging, and academic writing pedagogy, along with ethical concerns, emotionality, and institutional readiness. The conceptual framing puts the AI on a sociocultural and critical pedagogy framework and views it as a two-sided tool, and a cultural agent. Opportunities and risks are also incorporated in the discussion and ideas of how to integrate responsibly are proposed. The conclusion gives a call to adopt a balanced approach, ethical stance and cross-disciplinary collaboration to ensure that AI has a critical impact in teaching English language in higher education.
The Impact of Outdated Curriculum Content on Academic Performance of 9th Grade Students in Government Secondary Schools of Nawabshah
Curriculum relevance plays a crucial role in shaping students’ academic performance and learning outcomes. This study investigates the impact of outdated curriculum content on the academic performance of 9th grade students in government secondary schools of Nawabshah. The research aims to examine the extent to which obsolete concepts, traditional teaching materials, and a lack of alignment with modern educational needs affect students’ understanding, engagement, and examination results. A quantitative research design was employed, involving a sample of 9th grade students and subject teachers from selected government secondary schools. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and academic performance records, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The findings reveal that outdated curriculum content significantly hinders students’ conceptual clarity, critical thinking skills, and motivation, resulting in lower academic achievement. The study also highlights teachers’ challenges in delivering content that does not reflect current scientific, technological, and societal developments. Based on the results, the study recommends periodic curriculum revision, integration of contemporary knowledge, and teacher training to enhance instructional effectiveness. The outcomes of this research provide valuable insights for curriculum developers, educational policymakers, and school administrators aiming to improve the quality of secondary education in Nawabshah and similar contexts.
Economic Integration under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor: A Comparative Analysis of the Western and Eastern Routes
The China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is widely regarded as a transformative initiative for Pakistan’s economic integration; however, its internal route configuration has generated significant political and developmental debate. This study examines economic integration under CPEC through a comparative analysis of its Eastern and Western routes, conceptualizing them as distinct yet interconnected development pathways. Using a qualitative, comparative research design supported by descriptive quantitative indicators, the study relies exclusively on secondary data drawn from official government reports, international development institutions, parliamentary records, and peer-reviewed academic literature. The analysis demonstrates that the Eastern Route, aligned with Pakistan’s established urban industrial core, has delivered faster infrastructure completion, higher investment concentration, improved trade facilitation, and short-term efficiency gains. In contrast, the Western Route traversing historically marginalized regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, ex-FATA, and Balochistan has progressed more slowly due to security, terrain, and institutional constraints, yet exhibits stronger potential for inclusive growth, regional equity, and long-term national integration. Comparative evaluation reveals that policy prioritization of efficiency has reinforced existing core periphery disparities, while underinvestment in the Western Route has constrained its integrative capacity. The findings highlight that CPEC’s developmental outcomes are shaped not only by infrastructure economics but also by political economy dynamics, federal–provincial governance asymmetries, and spatial justice considerations. The study concludes that sustainable economic integration under CPEC requires a recalibrated corridor strategy that balances efficiency-driven growth with equity oriented regional development. By integrating both routes within a unified national framework, Pakistan can transform CPEC from a connectivity project into a mechanism for long-term economic cohesion and stability.
Navigating Diasporic Existence: Identity, Belonging and Displacement in Christy Lefteri’s The Beekeeper of Allepo
This study examines how Lefteri constructs diasporic consciousness and trauma as central narrative dynamics that interrogate the complexities of identity, belonging, and forced displacement in a globalized world. The selected novel The Beekeeper of Aleppo brings to light the conflicts between the desire to cling to the country of origin and the need to survive in exile through the character of Nuri Ibrahim who is a Syrian refugee negotiating the physical destruction of war and the psychological burden of loss and memories. Drawing on diaspora studies and postcolonial theory, the study highlights how Lefteri, the novelist, represents displacement as a liminal state where one experiences fractured identity. The novel’s movement between memories of Aleppo and the harsh realities of refugee transit mirrors the sense of disorientation of the diasporic subject, whose identity is disturbed by violence, border controls, and institutional inattentiveness. Finally, this study suggests that The Beekeeper of Aleppo transforms the refugee experience into a broader meditation on global precarity, demonstrating how diasporic identities emerge not only as sites of loss and alienation but also as fragile forms of resilience and ethical resistance in an increasingly dehumanized world.
Representation of Kashmiri Militants as Precipitant Victims: A Systemic Functional Study of Victimization in Scattered souls by Shahnaz Basheer
The Kashmir conflict, a longstanding and globally recognized issue, remains highly susceptible to disturbances stemming from seemingly minor events. This study offers a linguistic analysis of Kashmiri literature, specifically focusing on Shahnaz Basheer's "Scattered Souls." The primary objective is to shed light on the portrayal of Kashmiri militants as precipitant victims and Kashmiri Muslims as victims in general within the text. Drawing from systemic functional linguistic theory as proposed by M.A.K. Halliday and the precipitant victimization theory by Marvin F. Wolfgang (1957), this study meticulously evaluated eight short stories from "Scattered Souls." Extracts pertaining to precipitant victimization were systematically identified, segmented into clauses, and subjected to analysis based on Halliday's transitivity model and Wolfgang's four Prerequisites. This research pursued a mix methodology encompassing qualitative and quantitative analyses. Qualitatively, the text underwent an in-depth examination and discussion. Concurrently, quantitative analysis was employed to identify the prevailing and dominant linguistic processes at play within the text. The key findings of this study revealed the material-transformative process as the most frequently employed linguistic process, appearing 129 times. This process was instrumental in elucidating the precipitant victimization of Kashmiri militants, portraying them as the instigators of the Kashmir conflict through actions that triggered responses. The "Actor" emerged as the dominant participant in these provocative actions, with an occurrence of 76 instances. Moreover, the frequent utilization of the circumstance of location served to underscore the temporal and spatial context of these actions, thereby accentuating the suffering of Kashmiri Muslims in the narrative. v In sum, this study endeavors to comprehend the depiction of Kashmiri militants and Kashmiri Muslims in "Scattered Souls" through linguistic analysis. It underscores the material-transformative process as the principal means to accentuate the precipitant victimization of militants and emphasizes the role of the "Actor" in driving provocative actions.
The Struggle Behind Success: How Personality Traits and Procrastination Shape Academic Achievement
Academic achievement is influenced by two psychological construct i.e procrastination & personality traits, but the combined impact of them didn’t get much attention in Pakistani context. The current study investigates the potential mediating role of procrastination between academic achievement and the Big Five personality traits.200 undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 25 who were chosen via purposive sampling participated in a cross-sectional correlational design. The Big Five Inventory-10 (Rammstedt & John, 2007), the Irrational Procrastination (Steel, 2010), and the Academic Performance Scale (Birchmeier et al., 2011) were among the standardized tools that were used in this study. In data analysis correlation method and mediation testing using PROCESS macro-Model 4 were used. The correlational findings show that extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness and openness to change had positive correlation with academic achievement and negative correlation with procrastination. While neuroticism showed negative correlation with academic performance and positive correlation with procrastination, Mediation analysis showed that procrastination partially mediated the effects of Extraversion (β = 0.13,95% CI [0.18, 0.82]), Conscientiousness (β = 0.146, 95% CI [0.155, 0.828]), openness to change (β = 0.13, 95% CI [0.17, 0.78]) on academic performance. On the other hand, the association between neuroticism and academic performance was fully mediated by procrastination (β =-0.13, 95% CI [-1.44, -0.38]). However, procrastination did not show a significant indirect effect with agreeableness (β =0.06, 95% CI [-0.14, 0.61]. The study concludes that personality traits influence academic achievement both directly and indirectly through procrastination, with the omission of agreeableness. Extraversion, conscientiousness and openness to change enhance academic achievement partially by reducing procrastination, however neuroticism lowers academic performance through procrastination. Agreeableness however does not show a significant indirect effect with procrastination. These results highlight procrastination as an important behavioral pathway linking personality trait to academic achievement and suggest that endorsing self-regulation skills may help improve student’s academic outcomes.
A Corpus-Assisted Investigation of (In) Directness in Pakistani Students’ Email Requests
The power of language in human affairs cannot be overstated, which drives us to communicate strategically. For instance, research suggests that request strategies, such as indirectness, help build positive interpersonal relationships. This research examines (in)directness in computer-mediated communication (CMC) within the Pakistani academic setting. More precisely, the aim of this investigation is to recognize the request strategies in students’ email requests. The present research utilizes a sequential mixed-methods investigation framework. A corpus of 32358 tokens was assembled from the emails received by four instructors of public-sector universities between 2021 and 2023. Specimens from the corpus were qualitatively scrutinized using the Cross-Cultural Speech Act Realization Project (Blum-Kulka & Olshtain, 1984). The outcomes guided the formulation of the hypothesis, which was subsequently tested using corpus analysis software to triangulate findings. The integrated findings illuminate request strategies in student email requests to faculty. The discoveries fill a gap in the literature by investigating (in)directness in the Pakistani academic context, contribute to the expanding corpus-assisted research, and provide insights for educational policy formation in Pakistan.
A Comparative Study of Activities Conducted for Re-Strengthening of Community Based Organizations in District Bagh, Ajk
The present study was conducted to investigate the conditions of community organizations before and after re-strengthening in district Bagh, AJ&K. A total of 89 respondents were randomly selected while one union council(Islam Nagar) was selected purposively out of which three villages i.e. Bhount, Karl Maldayalan and Karl Abbasi were also selected purposively. Study indicates that majority of the respondents were female. Most of the respondents joined COs in 2003 while all COs were re-strengthened in 2005. About 70% respondents stated that old COs had partial achievements of objectives while 92% attended the trainings arranged by AJKCDP. Savings increased after re-strengthening of COs. Similarly, 78% respondents were facilitated with the credit programme of AJKCDP. Majority of the sampled respondents utilized credit on livestock. Similarly, majority of the respondents were of the view that after re-strengthening the conditions like agriculture, income generating opportunities, skill development, self-help, and empowerment were much improved as compared to old COs. It is concluded that AJKCDP has brought positive change in livelihood development of rural people. Moreover, at village level local people are always facing many problems in credit provision and are more dependent on livestock and agriculture for their survival. Provision of services from the government sector is very poor. People are not aware to utilize their natural resources well. Therefore, it is highly recommended that institutional approach should be adopted which is very productive to help each other and to make contact with other government and non-government organizations. It is also recommended that an attempt should be made to maintain self-sustainability and motivating the people to work by themselves for improving their socio-economic condition in future. Trainings should be enhanced so that they become better source of income generating activities.
Global Power Shifts and the Changing Human Rights Agenda in The Twenty First Century
This paper is a critical analysis of how the relationship between the changing global power structure and the reshaping of the international human rights agenda are associated with the twenty first century. It is making the argument that the end of Western Hegemony and the emergence of multipolarity have undermined the universality of liberal human rights norms, substituting them with disputable, pluralist structures based on geopolitical rivalry and normative competition. Empirical research underlines the views on the counterproductive role of Chinese focus on economic growth and sovereignty, Russian disruptive resistance, or selective pragmatism of regional and middle powers in undermining the accountability of the institutions and weakening the enforcement mechanisms. The paper represents the process of retrenchment of core rights where it involves civil liberties, gender equality, migration, and digital privacy as symptomatic of institutional weakness and politicization. The study shows that the human rights issues are becoming reciprocal-dependent of the strategic selectivity and transactional diplomacy in place of principled universality by relating structural power transitions to the particular human rights issues to tackle. Finally, the paper argues that human rights governance in the future would be less about hegemonic enforcement but rather negotiated consensus using various actors and this essentially challenges the basis of legitimate, accountability and sustainability of rights in a disintegrated global order.
Erasure and Ecological Narratives: An Ecolinguistic Reading of The Headstrong Historian
This article reflects upon Adichie's The Headstrong Historian (2008) through an ecolinguistic review considering Stibbe's (2015) concept of erasure. Ecolinguistics is the study of language as it relates to human interactions with culture, identity, and the environment. Stibbe states that erasure occurs when language removes, covers, or otherwise dilutes significant aspects of life, thereby obscuring or weakening the discursive dimensions of life, leading the public to consider such facets unworthy of attention. This study aims to illustrate the narrative's depiction of the neglect of indigenous ecological knowledge resulting from colonialism. The study illustrates a range of erasures, including deletion, silence, covering, and naturalizing or backgrounding. Such patterns arise when colonial agents rename the Igbo, dismiss their rituals, silence women, distort the faith of the locals, and promote alien education as the only valid knowledge. Such erasures dilute the ecological ties the Igbo people had with their land, descendants, and traditions. This study adopts a qualitative textual analysis to capture how the narrative constructs these patterns. It concluded that colonial discourse constructs a unique narrative that appears concealed when it seeks to marginalize indigenous ecological discourse. After analysing her work, the author argues that Adichie shows how language can erase ecological and cultural knowledge, highlighting the importance of silencing and reclaiming indigenous voices.
Pragmatic Study Of Invitation Strategies/Moves: Analysis Of Wedding Invitation Cards (Barat) In Pakistan
Invitation strategies vary from culture to culture, society to society and from language to language. Invitations are the speech acts that every individual use to produce utterances, to invite someone directly and indirectly. Wedding invitation cards are the most common type of invitations that are used by almost in all societies. Every society used different strategies in making invitation cards. The purpose of this study is to analyze that what type of strategies/moves used in Pakistani wedding invitation cards (Barat) and also to analyze that how these strategies/moves are similar or different in case of Urdu and English language. Data was collected randomly by using different invitation cards printed in both languages (Urdu & English). Total cards that were selected for this study were seventy (70) in numbers, thirty-five (35) in Urdu and thirty-five (35) in English. The qualitative research method was used to do this study. The data was analyzed by using Swales move-analysis model and textual analysis. Results of the study showed that there were different strategies and moves that were used in the making of wedding invitation cards of Barrat in Pakistan. The findings showed that there are ten different moves in the wedding invitation cards of Barat function in both Urdu and English. Three common differences are present in the wedding invitation cards in Urdu and English language.
“Teaching with Heart and Mind: The Mediating Role of Emotional Regulation Between Emotional Intelligence and Teacher Effectiveness”
The goal of this study was to examine the effect of Emotional Intelligence (EI) on the performance of secondary school educators in Pakistan. Using a mixed-methods research study, data were collected from 200 secondary school teachers via the distribution of standardized questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative results showed a strong positive correlation between Emotional Intelligence and the performance of educators (r = .68, p < .01), and regression analysis demonstrated that EI explained 46% of the teaching effectiveness variance. Qualitative outcomes also showed that educators with strong emotional intelligence exhibited strong classroom management, communication, and adaptability skills and thus developed supportive and inspiring learning environments. While no significant gender differences emerged, educators from private institutions displayed higher levels of EI and performance compared to educators teaching at public institutions. Outcome results highlight the value of Emotional Intelligence as an essential professional competency working to enhance instructional quality and the well-being of educators. This study contributes to the theory by verifying Goleman's Emotional Competence Framework and the Job Demands–Resources theory within the educational realm among the secondary school system within the country. Practical implications indicate the value of the inclusion of EI training within preservice and inservice educator programs. Finally, the study hypothesizes improving the emotional competence among educators can enhance the effectiveness of teaching and the overall results within developing countries.
Bridging The Policy Gap in AI-Enabled Education: The Research Based Evidence of Educational Leadership in Pakistan and Australia
This study explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, comparing the experiences of educational leaders in Australia and Pakistan. Using a qualitative methodology, the study employed semi-structured interviews with 16 educational leaders from both countries to gain insights into the challenges and opportunities they face in adopting AI. The research highlights differences in infrastructure, policy frameworks, and leadership preparedness. Australian leaders are generally better equipped for AI integration but still face challenges regarding ethical concerns and equitable access to technology. In contrast, Pakistani leaders are at the early stages of AI adoption, focusing on addressing foundational issues such as teacher training and infrastructure development. The study underscores the need for clear, context-specific policies and the importance of ongoing professional development for educators. It also stresses the role of leadership in overcoming the ethical, infrastructural, and policy challenges to ensure successful AI adoption in educational settings. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, educational leaders, and researchers looking to advance AI integration in education.
Socio-Demographic Factors Influencing Academic Pressure and Mental Health Among Students
Academic pressure has become a big part of university life, impacting how students feel both academically and mentally. This research explores the link between mental health and academic pressure among university students across different fields of study. It identifies key factors contributing to this pressure and looks at how they connect to issues like stress, anxiety, and depression, using a quantitative approach. The study also checks if things like gender and area of study affect this relationship. By focusing on what students actually experience, this research aims to provide insights that can help universities create more supportive and healthier learning environments.
The Shifting Global Order: China’s Challenge to U.S. Hegemony in the Indo-Pacific
This research paper explores the shifting global order by examining China’s growing challenge to U.S. hegemony in the Indo-Pacific region. It explores how China’s economic diplomacy especially the Belt and Road Initiative, alongside expanding diplomatic engagement and military modernization, is reshaping regional power dynamics. Collected the data from policy documents, and scholarly literature, this study argues that while the United States retains significant advantages through its alliance networks and military strength but, China’s rising influence has created a contested strategic environment. The paper concludes that the Indo-Pacific is moving toward a prolonged phase of competition marked by hedging, multipolarity, and strategic uncertainty rather than outright power transition.
Job Autonomy and Nurses Empowerment; The Mediating role of Job Crafting in Azad Kashmir’s Healthcare Sector
The nursing profession is increasingly affected by workload pressures, emotional issues, and resource difficulties. In this study, job autonomy positively related among nurse’s engagement and satisfaction at workplace. Along with this, job crafting act as an interlinking mechanism in this relationship. A self-administered structured survey with a sample comprising 286 nurses from public and private hospitals in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) was used to collect the empirical information. The findings suggested that job autonomy positively and significantly affects engagement and job satisfaction. Furthermore, job crafting partially mediates the relationship between job autonomy and job engagement and job satisfaction. This suggests that nurses with higher job autonomy are more inclined to change their tasks and interactions with the job proactively in order to engage with and be satisfied with the job. This study makes the following contributions to the research literature, it provides empirical evidence about a relatively under-studied setting, examining the mediator role of job crafting in the relationship between autonomy and positive outcomes at the workplace. The findings suggest that there should be an increased focus within healthcare organizations on creating nursing positions with a greater sense of autonomy as well as designing jobs proactively to promote sustainable engagement, job satisfaction and overall well-being of nurses working in those organizations.
China’s Role in Shaping Regional Cooperation and Integration in South Asia: The Impact of the Belt and Road Initiative
China’s growing engagement in South Asia has significantly transformed the region’s political, economic, and strategic landscape. Central to this engagement is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a flagship global development strategy aimed at enhancing connectivity, trade, infrastructure development, and regional cooperation. Through large-scale investments in transportation networks, energy projects, ports, and digital infrastructure, China has positioned itself as a key driver of regional integration in South Asia. This study examines China’s role in shaping regional cooperation and integration in South Asia with a particular focus on the impact of the Belt and Road Initiative. It analyzes how BRI-related projects such as the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), port development, and cross-border infrastructure have influenced economic interdependence, regional connectivity, and diplomatic relations among South Asian states. The study also explores challenges associated with BRI, including debt sustainability concerns, geopolitical rivalries, and regional security issues. Using a qualitative research approach based on secondary sources, this research highlights both the opportunities and limitations of China’s BRI in promoting sustainable regional integration in South Asia. The findings suggest that while BRI has enhanced regional connectivity and economic cooperation, its long-term success depends on inclusive development, political stability, and balanced regional diplomacy.
The Impact of Technology on Social, Psychological and Personal Relationships among Youth and Its Consequences on Community Development
In the evolving landscape dominated by technology, this thesis critically examines the multifaceted implications of its pervasive influence on human life. As machines exert increasing control over individuals, essential human qualities such as adaptability, humor, and the drive for communication encounter notable challenges. Despite technology's integral role, inherent drawbacks, including data breaches, inefficiencies, and an alarming dependence on technological systems, have come to the forefront. The thesis systematically investigates the adverse impacts on data storage, identity, security, and the societal ramifications for the hyper-connected youth, providing a comprehensive analysis of the root causes and psychological aftermath of data breaches. Furthermore, it scrutinizes the role of social media within this technological paradigm, acknowledging its significance and emphasizing that its impact on relationships is intricately tied to its use. By recognizing the potential for positive influence, particularly when harnessed constructively, the thesis positions social media as a pivotal factor in shaping the ongoing narrative between technology and human interaction.
Instructional Challenges: English as Medium of Instruction in Primary Schools of District Lower Dir
English is a source of communication across the globe and serves as a communicative base in education. The current study is aimed at identifying the challenges and issues faced by teachers and students towards English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) at the primary school level in District Dir Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This quantitative study is carried out with a sample of 308 primary school teachers through simple random sampling by using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sampling formula. The collection of data is made through a close-ended questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Chi-square. Findings revealed that disturbance in classrooms, lack of proper syllabus, lack of alignment with native languages, lack of professional development of teachers in EMI and lack of interest of students are the challenges faced by teachers while teaching with EMI. The findings also revealed that limited exposure of students towards English and lack of opportunities for practicing English. Recommendations include the provision of informal opportunities to students in the form of open competitions and free dialogue along with provision of multimedia and other gadgets to primary schools for practicing English.
Discursive Representation of Queer and Transgender Identities in Ideologically Polarized Political Discourse on Twitter and Online Ideology: A Corpus-Based Study
This study explores the discursive presentation of queer and transgender identities in politically polarized ideology on Twitter, and how online ideology affects identity formation, inclusion and exclusion. Social media, and Twitter, in particular, have become the focal points of political discussion in which gender diversity is often challenged using polarized discourses. It is in this context that the study intends to analyze the effect of conflicting ideological standpoints in the linguistic coding of the concept of queer and transgender identities in political discourse. The study takes a quantitative corpus linguistics approach to Critical Discourse Analysis with a qualitative approach of discourse interpretation. The theoretical framework combines the Critical Discourse Analysis, Ideology and Discourse Theory and Queer Theory, which allows exploring the power, ideology, and gender performativity of online discourse. Public English-language political tweets are gathered by way of key word and hash tag searches on predetermined political period. The two comparable corpora used to represent the progressive and conservative ideological stands are constructed using a purposive and stratified method of sampling. Results indicate the definite ideological polarization of the manifestation of queer and transgender identities. These identities are largely legitimized by progressive discourses, using rights-based and inclusive frames; and often delegitimized by conservative discourses, using moral, ideological, and biological discourses. The paper concludes that polarized online discourse makes gender identity to become a symbolic location of ideological antagonism. The paper suggests more robust platform governance, counter-discourse that is comprehensive, and increased corpus-based research to be conducted in a variety of socio-political settings.
Impact of Organizational Justice on Organizational Commitment and Organizational Citizenship Behavior with the Mediating Effect of Organizational Trust
This study examines the impact of organizational justice on organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) within the telecom sector, with a focus on the mediating role of organizational trust. Organizational justice, consisting of distributive, procedural, and interactional justice, is a crucial determinant of employee attitudes and behaviors. The research highlights that employees who perceive fairness in their organization are more likely to develop higher levels of commitment and engage in OCB. Furthermore, organizational trust is found to act as a significant mediator, strengthening the relationships between organizational justice and both organizational commitment and OCB. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 350 employees working in telecom companies in Lahore, Pakistan, through a self-administered survey. The findings support the hypothesis that organizational justice positively influences both organizational commitment and OCB, with trust playing a pivotal mediating role. These results contribute to the understanding of how fairness perceptions and trust affect employee outcomes, offering valuable insights for improving employee engagement and performance in the telecom sector. The study also suggests that fostering an environment of fairness and trust can enhance organizational effectiveness and create a positive work culture.
A Socio-Cultural Factors Affecting Food Wastage in Pushtoon Society; A Case Study of Malakand Division
Food wastage has escalated to be a major global and local concern that affects the society, economy, and culture of the world. Nevertheless, an estimated one-third of the food produced globally for human consumption is discarded every year, which equals 1.3 billion tons of food wasted worldwide. The Pashtun community is accustomed to wasting food as the food habits of the people are a significant determinant of the community's socio-cultural life, mainly the principles of hospitality, pride, and bragging. The food left over at weddings, religious festivals, and community gatherings is usually thrown away as these events are the cultural milieus that revolve around the concepts of giving and wasting simultaneously. This research focusses the socio-cultural factor which are the main drivers of food wastage in the Malakand division in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The method for data collection in this research is quantitative in nature where data were collected from 295 respondents through a structured questionnaires carried out in four canteens in the nearby area. The results show that the primary reason for food wastage is the socio-economic status, cultural pressure, and class based imitation. Household belong to upper class waste more food as compared to lower class and flaunt their wealth, while the lower class or the low income people engage in such practices although they have financial problems. The research finding suggests that the food wastage in pushtun society is mostly because of the cultural heritage, rich tradition, and social disparities in the community. The paper suggests that there is a need for proper measures to reduce these wastage of food, these measures can be promotion through media, food bank system, redistribution program, and involving local religious scholar to addressed this issue in Islamic context to reduce food wastage and safeguard the pushtun tradition and customs of generosity and hospitality.
Economic and Political Dynamics of Tourism Development in South Asia: Institutions, Interests and Growth Benefits
This empirical work examines the dynamic nexus between tourism expansion and economic development, focusing on institutional systems in six South Asian states. It means that these countries have distinct political systems, so an analysis will need to be nuanced to understand the economic importance of tourism development. The paper studies the role of political and institutional frameworks in the economic impacts of tourism across six countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The study investigates the relationship between tourism expenditure and GDP per capita for the period 1995–2020 using the ARDL (Autoregressive Distributed Lag) approach. Time series analysis methods are used to estimate the impacts of political stability and governance quality on tourism's economic development. The result indicates that countries with robust institutions and stable politics stand to gain more from tourism's economic benefits. On the negative side, economies such as the tourism sector are likely to struggle in countries marked by political unrest and poor governance. Underexistence: In such environments, the potential of tourism has been significantly underutilised or frustrated by corruption, lack of policy coherence, and unreliable regulation. This study confirms the importance of sound institutions in shaping tourism as a sector that contributes to long-run economic growth. Good governance, in terms of proper regulation and an anti-corruption drive, indeed helps tourism contribute more to nation-building. All those with relatively stable political systems and institutional integrity can optimise the economic gains from tourism, leading to future growth and development. At the same time, nations that are reckoning with poor governance, conflicts, and political vulnerability face significant challenges in fully capitalising on tourism's advantages. The study concludes that the way forward to realise the economic potential of tourism in South Asia is to reinforce institutional approaches and regional cooperation. “Improved governance and better regulatory environments will allow tourism to become a catalyst for growth in this region, helping generate employment, restore livelihoods and stimulate local economies,” said Rifai.
An Empirical Assessment of Leadership Effectiveness among Educational Leaders in Public Secondary Schools of District Sialkot
This research was intended to evaluate the leadership performance of educational leaders in the public secondary schools of the District of Sialkot empirically. The quantitative research design was used to quantify the performance of leaders based on the main aspects of leadership performance in the 6 dimensions: teamwork, clarity of vision, enthusiasm, mentorship, ethical leadership and strategic planning. All educational teachers of the public secondary schools in Tehsil Daska were the population with a sample of 86 schools (344 teachers) chosen through proportional stratified random sampling. The researcher-created Leadership Effectiveness Scale (LES) was used as data collection methods, which is a scale that is based on expert review and pilot testing and whose reliability is determined by Cronbach alpha. Statistical tests indicated that the educational leaders were well above the mean of benchmark on all the factors measured indicating that they had high leadership effectiveness. Competence trends were alike in both male and female leaders as they also excelled in encouraging teamwork, offering clear directions, encouraging professional growth, and adopting ethical and strategic behaviors. The results show that effective leadership is very essential in improving the performance of the school, positive working environment and reaching the institutional objectives. The research has implications to governments and education leaders on how to enhance leadership in secondary schools.
Designing for All: Universal Design for Learning as a Pathway to Effective Modifications and Accommodations
This mixed-methods study examined how teachers in Pakistan use Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a pathway to effective modifications and accommodations. A survey of 200 teachers from schools, special education centres, colleges, and universities measured UDL knowledge, classroom practices, use of accommodations, and perceived institutional support. Semi-structured interviews and document analysis explored how these practices operate within Pakistan’s exam-driven and resource-constrained context. Quantitative findings showed moderate knowledge of UDL and practice overall, with significantly higher scores among teachers with inclusive education training, tertiary staff, and those in better-resourced regions. UDL knowledge, practices, and accommodation use were positively correlated. Qualitative results revealed that many accommodations remain reactive and exam-driven, yet some teachers demonstrate proactive, UDL-aligned design. The study concludes that UDL can strengthen, rather than replace, individual accommodations, if teacher education, institutional policies, and assessment systems are realigned to support flexible, accessible design for all learners across Pakistani educational settings.
The Suppression of Female Voice: Power, Patriarchy, and Resistance in Christina Dalcher’s Vox
Patriarchal systems deeply shape societal structures, often relegating women to the position of objects or commodities within cultural, political, and social spheres. This paper analyzes Vox by Christina Dalcher as a modern feminist dystopia that challenges the relationship between power, silence and control by men. By giving critical analysis of the novel’s portrayal of linguistic repression where women are restricted to one hundred words per day, the paper examines how the silencing of the feminine voice is enforced by a greater historical and systematic gendered oppression. Vox reveals how institutions of patriarchy discipline feminine bodies to control speech and identity. The resistance in the novel, both personal and communal, also throws light on the transformational power of returning voice as a source of power. Finally, it is a thesis of this paper that Vox not only reinvigorates the female voice as a source of agency but also gives a strong warning about the vulnerability of the rights of women under patriarchy.
Blockchain-Based Systems for Public Sector Transparency: Exploring the Use of Blockchain Technology to Enhance Transparency and Accountability in Public Sector Transactions
This research explores the potential of blockchain technology in enhancing transparency and efficiency within public sector transactions. The research aims to assess how blockchain adoption impacts government operations, focusing on financial transparency, public trust, and operational efficiency. Data was collected from government officials, blockchain experts, and citizens involved in blockchain-based public services through surveys and case studies. The analysis indicates that blockchain adoption significantly improves transparency, with respondents noting increased public trust and greater accountability in government processes. Efficiency improvements were also observed, with reductions in time spent on administrative tasks such as public procurement, land registration, and financial transactions. Statistical analysis, including correlation and regression models, revealed a positive relationship between blockchain adoption and improvements in both transparency and efficiency. The study highlights that while blockchain presents a promising solution, several barriers, including technical, legal, and organizational challenges, must be addressed for successful implementation. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers considering blockchain as a tool for reforming public sector operations.
Leveraging Social Media as a Tool for Universal Design for Learning: Transforming Inclusive Education in the Digital Era
The present research study recognizes social media as one of the essential channels of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to lead the rise of inclusion in education in the digital era. The paper analyzes the educators' perspectives, their implementation, and issues in the use of social media tools that meet UDL principles to create learning environments that are fair to the diverse student population. Some educators perceive social media as a tool to facilitate engagement, representation, and expression; however, a considerable number of them are still wrestling with problems such as insufficient training, lack of institutional support, and technical difficulties that impede the implementation of UDL. The results show that teachers are positive about the use of social media as a tool for inclusion in education, but they still face difficulties in using these tools regularly. The study stresses the significance of teacher education programs and school-based structures in implementing UDL through social media. The main points in the recommendations concerning teacher training are that it should be more personalized, there should be better provision of digital resources, and school policy drafting should facilitate the creation of inclusive digital learning environments.
Achieving Equilibrium: Exploring the Connection between Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation to Enhance Banking Services
The primary objective of this study is to investigate the use of artificial intelligence (AI), digital innovation, and Fintech to promote banking services in Pakistan. To achieve these goals, a questionnaire-based survey was conducted. The study examined a range of people in Pakistan, including shoppers, business owners, and employees in the banking and financial sectors. The findings elucidated the intricate relationships among AI, digital innovation, and Fintech within Pakistan's banking sector. The poll results indicate that people across demographic groups recognize and use AI-powered financial services and FinTech platforms to varying degrees. The results of this study will affect many people in the banking industry and the economy. To better meet the needs of diverse client groups, financial institutions can use data to refine their AI and FinTech strategies. Regulators might use findings from the study to develop regulations ensuring that these technologies are safe and ethically sound.
Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Teacher’s Effectiveness: A Study of Higher Secondary School Students Perceptions
This paper has investigated the role of EI in making teaching effective. Although studies indicate that EI teachers create more favourable classroom environments, very few studies have been conducted on how the students of higher secondary schools perceive effective teaching in relation to the teacher’s emotional intelligence. The main objective was to identify which EI elements students value most in teachers and how these components relate to perceptions of teaching effectiveness. Six urban government higher secondary schools from the district of Kohat were selected. Of these schools, 285 students completed a 30-item questionnaire. Ten items on effective teachers and twenty on emotional intelligence were included. A 5-point Likert scale was used to analyse the collected data and assess reliability. T-test and ANOVA were also used. The analysis showed that students rated EI and effective teaching positively, with average scores ranging from 2.21 to 2.32. According to students, the most important element of EI is motivation, with 24.9% and, followed by social skills with 21.8%. The items of the questionnaire were highly consistent with a value from o.720 to o.896 of Cronbach’s alpha. The results verify that the EI is well identified by students in their teachers and they correlated it with effective teaching. It is also recommended that EI development be included in future teachers' training programs, and such research may be conducted with students in rural areas and private schools.
Educational Awareness of Young Generation toward Smoking and Its Health Impacts. A case Study of Mardan, Pakistan
Background: Smoking remains a critical public health challenge, particularly among youth in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This study assessed the educational awareness of smoking and its health impacts among young people in Mardan district. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted with 400 youth aged 15-24 from educational institutions. Data was collected via a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS for descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: While high awareness of major risks like lung cancer (95%) was found, knowledge gaps existed for specific impacts such as infertility (37.5% aware). Key determinants of smoking behavior included peer influence (Odds Ratio, OR=2.01), parental smoking (OR=2.46), and using social media as a primary information source (OR=2.23). Formal education from school curricula showed a protective association against smoking. Conclusion: A significant disconnect exists between general awareness and protective behavior. Interventions must move beyond knowledge dissemination to address social norms and digital influences through integrated, context-specific strategies.
Impact of Governance Constraints on Elderly Care Effectiveness: The Mediating Role of Community Engagement and Organizational Adaption
This rapid growth older population has created some major challenges in the structure of developing countries such as Pakistan. These rapid rise of older population change the traditional care giving structure of elderly population in Pakistan, which increased transformations of older population towards old age homes. These transformations highlighted the need for new nursing homes, which require financial allocation and policy domains to support the elderly population's needs. But the development of new nursing homes has faced many challenges including political challenges. In this context, grounded with the institutional theory and community engagement theory, this study examined the impact of political challenges on elderly care effective by the mediating role of both community engagement and organizational adaption in the terms of Pakistan. By using well-structured questionnaire, a total 305 number of survey responses were collected from the employees of different old age homes of Pakistan, but after the process of data smoothing 283 valid and usable responses were taken for final data analysis. For the analysis of collected data this study used hybrid approach of both PLS-SEM and ANN to measure the both linear and non-linear relationships of the proposed framework. The findings of the study revealed that the both community engagement and organizational adaption significantly enhance elderly care services. While ANN highlights that the organizational adaption was the most influential variable in predicting outcomes of elderly care effectiveness. These results of this study provide some valuable insights for the policymaker and manager who are working the context of old age homes of Pakistan.
Administrative Dysfunction in Pakistan Higher Education: A Qualitative Exploration of Institutional Sclerosis, Democratic Deficits, and Post-Colonial Persistence
Pakistan institutions of higher learning are governed by post-colonial administrative traditions, bureaucratic structures, and dependency on resources. Although the country has been implementing national reforms, including HEC Vision 2025, empirical observations indicate that there is a lot of disparity between the purpose of policy and the actions taken by the institutions since stakeholders have stated that they are not satisfied with the way the organization communicates, makes decisions, and allocates resources. This qualitative research critically explores the institutional and cultural factors that determine administrative dysfunction in Pakistani universities of the public sector with reference to institutional sclerosis, exclusion of stakeholders, and the continuation of post-colonial rule. The study explains the effects of deeper hierarchies, communication failures, and undemocratic structures on institutional performance and provide information to guide the development of context-specific governance models. The study followed an interpretivist paradigm by relying on 45 semi-structured interviews with faculty members, administrative staff, and students in four public universities located in Punjab. A document-analysis element, which reviewed policy frameworks, strategic planning, audit reports and governance statutes, was added on to the data set. The thematic procedure with six phases, as developed by Braun and Clarke, was used in analysis, with the help of NVivo 12. They gave birth to four meta themes: hierarchical government systems featured with ceremonial involvement; poor communication and lack of stakeholder expression, misallocation of resources in an opaque administrative environment and deep-rooted cultural barriers to change and responsibility. These results shed some light on institutional sclerosis trends, lack of democratic governance, and colonial administrative logic persistence. The cause of administrative dysfunction is structural based and culturally entrenched, and thus requires far-ranging reforms, which focus on the structure of governance and the culture of the institution. These reforms are necessary to instil transparency, accountability and stakeholder decision-making.
Migration and “Brain Drain” from Pakistan: A Barrier to Sustainable Development
Population has been a pivotal element of national power. A well-developed population - human capital - acts as a catalyst to optimize all other resources deployed for sustainable socio-economic development. Pakistan with its over 240 million populations, ranks 5th largest in the world yet its economy is 42nd among the comity of nations (World Bank, 2024). About 64% of the country’s population comprises young people (Dawn, 2024), which is a precious resource in the contemporary world, however, the human resource development in the country is far from satisfactory (UNDP, 2024). With low socio-economic indicators, political instability, and lack of job opportunities, Pakistani youth desires to leave the country at any cost, even at the peril of their lives. The most alarming trend is that the youth is disillusioned and losing hope in the state apparatus to improve the situation. Traditionally, Pakistan has been exporting unskilled and semi-skilled workforce; however, recent trends indicate that highly skilled individuals like engineers, doctors, and professionals are leaving the country in large numbers. Various ‘push’ and ‘pull’ factors (Lee, E. S. 1966) are responsible for migration and brain drain from Pakistan. There is an array of multifaceted reasons for people to leave Pakistan in large numbers. ‘Push’ factors include poor governance, deteriorating law & order, lack of social justice, and an unhealthy environment for entrepreneurship. ‘Pull’ factors include greener pastures, equitable return for hard work, and security. This qualitative study adopts interpretivist approach with case study research design to explore the causes and consequences of emigration/brain drain and its impact on achieving Pakistan’s Sustainable Development Goals - 2030. Primary data has been collected through focus group discussions and semi structured interviews and secondary data has been obtained from review of print and electronic media reports from year 2001 to 2025. Findings were reached through multilayered qualitative data analysis i.e. thematic and discourse analysis. The study suggests that political stability, consistent policies, an enabling environment for entrepreneurship, and rule of law can help foster confidence among the youth and reverse the trend of brain drain.
Strategic Resilience in Fast Fashion: A Critical Analysis of Zara’s Competitive Positioning
The strategic positioning of Zara has been assessed in this paper, where the key issues and opportunities have been outlined to sustain a competitive edge in the industry of fast fashion. Although Zara is very effective in terms of fast-product development, logistical and inventory challenges have been noted to impede its ability to respond to the changing needs of the consumers in a timely manner. The study identifies three major areas of development, namely, tapping emerging online markets in developing markets of the developing world such as South Africa, responding to the urgency of the movement towards ethical and sustainable production, and product differentiation with specific reference to the emerging athleisure segment. The study evaluates the effects of these strategies on the main stakeholders, and it is observed that digital optimization leads to the growth of consumer loyalty, suppliers benefit due to open sourcing, and sustainable growth leads to investor returns. The study suggests that the company can be proceeded to enhance its market leadership by adopting a multi-faceted solution: the introduction of high-tech e-commerce solutions including virtual fitting rooms, the adoption of the latest technologies in the supply chain, and the alignment of the brand values with the concept of environmental consciousness. Through these strategic changes, Zara will be able to increase its operational capability and be able to manage the changing global retail environment.
Impostor Phenomenon and Burnout among Doctoral Scholars: The Role of Personality Traits and Demographic Factors
Doctoral education is characterized by sustained academic demands, evaluative pressure, and prolonged uncertainty, which place doctoral scholars at heightened risk for psychological distress. The present quantitative study examined the role of personality traits and impostor syndrome in predicting burnout among doctoral scholars, while accounting for personal and contextual demographic factors. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 200 Ph.D. scholars enrolled in public and private universities. Participants completed measures of the Big Five personality traits, impostor syndrome, and burnout. Descriptive statistics, reliability analyses, Pearson correlations, hierarchical regression, and mediation analyses were conducted. Results indicated that impostor syndrome was a strong and consistent predictor of burnout, explaining a substantial proportion of variance, whereas Big Five personality traits showed weak and largely non-significant associations with burnout. Demographic variables contributed minimally to burnout, with job type emerging as the only significant contextual predictor. Mediation analyses revealed that impostor syndrome did not mediate the relationship between personality traits and burnout. These findings underscore the central role of impostor feelings in doctoral burnout and highlight the need for targeted institutional and psychological interventions to support doctoral scholars’ well-being.
US-China Geostrategic Rivalry in the South China Sea: Effects on Maritime Security and Diplomatic Stability in 2025
This paper examines the growing strategic rivalry between the United States and China in the South China Sea, a region valued for its shipping routes, fisheries, and potential energy deposits. The study describes how intensified naval, coast guard, and militia activities near disputed islands have increased the frequency of confrontations and raised the risk of accidental clashes. These developments challenge the principle of open navigation and threaten regional trade networks. The analysis also considers the complicated positions of claimant states Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, and China and their efforts to balance relations with both major powers. ASEAN’s attempts to manage disputes and limit external pressures are reviewed as part of the broader diplomatic landscape. The paper argues that reducing tensions requires steady communication, transparency at sea, and stronger multilateral dialogue. It concludes that only a balanced blend of military restraint, economic cooperation, and diplomatic engagement can prevent further instability in the Indo-Pacific.
Stress Coping Styles and Academic Achievement: A Correlational Study
Stress is a fundamental component of student life and has significant effects on the academic achievement of learners. The present research study attempted to find out the correlation between ways to cope with stress and academic achievement in university students. The correlational research approach was applied to gather information regarding a group of 500 learners who were participating in three different governmental universities: the University of Haripur, Abbottabad University of Science and Technology, and Hazara University in Mansehra, Pakistan. Respondents represent a broad spectrum of academic disciplines and program levels. The stress coping techniques were evaluated using standard methods, including problem-focused coping, emotion-focused coping, avoidant coping, and social support coping, while academic achievement was gauged through self-reported GPA. Pearson product-moment correlation analysis revealed a relatively favourable link between problem-focused coping and academic achievement (r =.42, p <.01) showing that it indicates learners who effectively manage stresses seem to succeed better academically. Dealing with peer support has been associated to greater educational achievement (r =.30, p <.01). Emotion-focused coping (r = -.28, p <.01) and avoidant coping (r = -.35, p <.01) exhibited substantial negative correlations with academic performance. Interrelationships between coping styles demonstrated that appropriate coping methods had a positive relationship to academic success, although maladaptive strategies were inversely related. The findings highlight the importance of supportive adaptive coping techniques to improve students' academic achievement and psychological well-being. The implications for counselling services and stress management therapies in university settings are explored.
Theological Ideology as Discursive Practice in the Bible: A Corpus-Assisted Critical Discourse Analysis of Linguistic Patterns
This paper examines theology ideology as a discourse practice in the Bible through a corpus-based Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). The aim of the study is to explore the ways in which repeated linguistic patterns form theological sense, power, moral judgment and identity in the Bible. The context of the study is rooted in the recent interdisciplinary theory that knows sacred texts as theological and discursive artifacts in the ideological maintenance of which the ideological force of the patterned use of language is maintained. The study is methodologically quantitative corpus linguistics and qualitative CDA as it uses both quantitative and qualitative approaches. It was an authoritative English translation that was collected into a purpose-built biblical corpus broken into stratified sub-corpora (Old Testament vs New Testament; narrative vs. epistolary text) purposive stratified sampling. Sketch Engine and other analytical tools were used in identifying keywords, collocations, concordance patterns, dispersion, and semantic prosody. The theoretical framework is informed by the three dimension model of discourse advanced by Fairclough that allows one to analyze and discuss texts, discursive and social practices. The results demonstrate that the main theological ideas are not only systematically patterned across the genres and testaments but also the divine agency is always prefigured, moral judgment is evened by semantic prosody, and insider/outsider roles are discursively sustained. All these patterns are designed to naturalize theological authority and worldview ideologically. The paper suggests broader use of corpus-aided CDA in theological studies and comparative studies involving translation and religious customs in comparisons.
Effectiveness of Peer Tutoring Method in Improving Secondary School Students Chemistry Achievement
Peer tutoring is used worldwide as an appropriate and effective tool for improving students’ learning at all levels of schooling. In this context, the main intent of this quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design study was to analyze the effect of peer tutoring on secondary school students’ chemistry achievement. All the 6998 male students enrolled at secondary level in Tehsil Muzaffargarh were taken as population. Two intact/preexisting sections of grade 10th in Govt. High School Khan Pur Bagga Sher Tehsil Muzafargarh were selected as representative sample. One section with 50 students (Experimental group) was taught using peer tutoring method. The other section with 45 students (Control group) received instructions with conventional method. Researchers collected data using pretest and posttest. Both the descriptive (Mean, SD) as well as inferential statistical techniques (Independent Samples t-test and Paired Samples t-test) were applied to analyze the data. It was found that there was a significant difference between Chemistry achievement of both the groups i.e., experimental group who received instructions with peer tutoring method and control group who received instruction through conventional method. The findings further suggest that the use of peer tutoring method has significantly positive effect on secondary students’ chemistry achievement. Finally, this study provides the valuable implications for teachers, school administrators and policy makers to take steps for enhancement of students’ academic achievement in the subject of Chemistry at secondary level.
Child Protection and Human Rights: The Role of Social Workers in Ensuring Children's Rights in Pakistan
Although Pakistan has legal obligation to safeguard children under the constitution and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) there still exists major loopholes in enforcing child protection acts which exposes many children to abuse and exploitation, as well as neglect. The lack of structural factors such as resources, lack of professional training, and poor coordination between the government and non-government agencies hinder the effective implementation of child protection services. The current research was conducted, to investigate the position of the social worker in advancing and protecting the rights of the children in Pakistan, to determine the major issues and obstacles facing social workers when implementing child protection, to determine the effectiveness of the existing social work interventions in ensuring the implementation of the children rights and to suggest solutions and proposals on how the social work practices can be reinforced to improve child protection and child rights advocacy in Pakistan. The research was carried out to look at the role of social workers in supporting and defending the rights of children in Pakistan. The qualitative research design is used in the study, which is appropriate to comprehend complicated social phenomena like child protection and human rights. There is a phenomenal approach that is made to comprehend the experiences of social workers. This method is based on the opinion of participants on their professions, issues, and practices in child protection. The sample is a group of social workers working in the governmental and non-governmental organizations dealing with child protection in Pakistan. Purposive sampling was used to sample participants who had the relevant experience and expertise. The semi-structured interviews were the method used to collect primary data, as it gave the participants a chance to discuss their experiences but within a standardized framework. The interviews examined the work of social workers, their challenges, and coping mechanisms related to the advocacy of children rights. The data was processed through thematic analysis in order to determine the patterns and themes. This was conducted by familiarization with the transcripts, coding of the important statements and clustering the codes into larger themes that are associated with the roles, challenges and strategies.
Investigating the Impact of Technostress on Quality of Life and Thriving at Work Among Healthcare Workers Through Mediating and Moderating Mechanisms
Technostress is a major health issue among allied healthcare workers. Technostress is considered the cause of mental health issues among individuals worldwide. This study aimed to determine the consequences of technostress on quality of life and thriving at work among healthcare workers through the mediating role of work exhaustion and the moderating role of employee resilience. Using structured questionnaires, time lagged data were collected in three waves from allied healthcare workers (n=251), employed in private facilities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. Applying conservation of resource theory, the investigation reveals that technostress elevates work exhaustion in persons, subsequently resulting in diminished quality of and no effect on thriving at. No evidence has been identified to support the moderating effect of employee resilience on the association between technostress and work exhaustion. Organizations should provide organizational interventions to reduce technostress and promote digital well-being among healthcare professionals as well as addressing work exhaustion can significantly improve quality of life and enhance thriving at work in high-pressure healthcare environments. Technostress causes work exhaustion and decreases the quality of life of allied healthcare workers in Pakistan.
Professional Development of Early Childhood Teachers Through Reflective Practices
Reflective practices in early childhood education (ECE) are critical for enhancing children’s learning outcomes and supporting teachers’ professional development. This study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design to examine the relationship between teachers’ reflective practices and their professional development in ECE settings. The quantitative phase involved 196 private-sector ECE teachers who completed an adapted survey questionnaire. The subsequent qualitative phase explored teachers’ lived experiences through semi-structured interviews with six early childhood teachers to further explain the quantitative findings. Quantitative results indicated a significant positive relationship between teachers’ reflective practices and their professional development. Specifically, self-assessment, documentation, and parental interaction were identified as key reflective practices that promote professional growth among ECE teachers. Qualitative findings supported these results, revealing that the consistent use of reflective practices enhances teachers’ professional competencies and reflective awareness. The study recommends the systematic integration of reflective practices in early childhood education, as they contribute to improved teaching quality and sustained professional development.
Exploring the Lived Experience of High School Teachers on Emotional Intelligence and Its Impact on Students' Achievement: A Case Study of Larkana
Emotional intelligence (EI) is increasingly recognized as a core teacher competency that shapes classroom interactions, student motivation, and academic outcomes. While global evidence links EI with learners’ achievement and well-being, less is known about how teachers in semi-rural Sindh, Pakistan, experience and enact EI in everyday school life, and how this relates to measurable student achievement. This case study examines high school teachers in Larkana district, focusing on their lived experience of EI alongside a quantitative test of EI–achievement relationships using SPSS-style analyses. A cross-sectional survey design was employed with n=150 public high school teachers sampled across boys’, girls’, and co-educational schools. Teachers completed a four-domain EI scale (self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills) and a classroom climate scale; student achievement was operationalized as the teacher-reported class mean percentage in the most recent annual examination cycle. Reliability analysis indicated strong internal consistency for the EI scale (Cronbach’s α=0.874). Pearson correlations showed that teacher EI was positively associated with student achievement (r=0.558, p<.001) and classroom climate (r=0.651, p<.001). Multiple regression indicated that EI (B=6.43, p<.001) and classroom climate (B=4.55, p<.001) significantly predicted achievement (R²=0.391), even when controlling for teaching experience and gender. ANOVA results demonstrated meaningful differences in achievement across EI quartiles (F(3,146)=30.00, p<.001), with the highest-EI group averaging 79.11% compared with 65.62% in the lowest-EI group. Findings support contemporary international research showing EI as a practical lever for improving classroom processes and achievement. Implications emphasize district-level professional development in EI, supportive supervision, and school climate improvement as scalable strategies for enhancing learning outcomes in Larkana.
Gendered Language used in Umaira Ahmad’s Urdu Novel “Meri Zaat Zarra-E-Benishan”: A Feminist Stylistic Analysis
Feminist stylistics analyzes how language uses gender to create subtle meanings that, in turn, unconsciously embed biased images in our minds of people and the world. Mills’ Feminist stylistic model (1995) analyzes the linguistic structures being exploited or subjugated concerning male or female and the related gender terms and values present in the text. Text is analyzed at three levels of word, sentence, and discourse to flag the gender issues within the text. Mills’ model is applied to the Urdu novel “Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan” written by Umaira Ahmad which is a story of Saba and her difficulties in her life. The text reveals how females in Pakistani Society endure difficulties to survive and are subordinate to males and their language is different from males. The writer has followed the norms and values of Pakistani society in describing female characters and the language they use. The overall study elaborates the way sexism and gender discriminatory messages, linguistically illustrated, are conveyed. Moreover, the assumption of only male writers being responsible for the negative portrayal of females in the text is falsified as the writer being a female manifested the negative portrayal of females.
The Impact of BRICS Expansion on Global Trade and Energy Patterns: A Quantitative Panel Study (2000–2025)
The rise of the BRICS block is a major change in the changing pattern of the global economy and this may have a future implication on international trade and energy markets. This research paper empirically investigates how BRICS expansion affects trade and energy trends in the world through a quantitative panel model that is based on a time span of 2000 to 2025. The analysis has used the BRICS member and nonmember countries as it attempts to establish whether membership of the institutions leads to any quantifiable change in trade and energy performance. They use fixed- and random-effects panel regression models where the choice of the models is determined by Hausman specification test. The outcome shows that the expansion of BRICS has a positive and significant impact in terms of total trade, exports, imports, and energy trade. Moreover, mediation analysis indicates that the effects of BRICS expansion partially pass through the energy trade to total trade performance, which underlines the importance of energy markets in determining economic integration in the bloc. Such results indicate that BRICS growth is no longer a ritualistic act of geopolitical convergence but is actually generating economic impacts that can be felt especially in the creation of stronger energy-trade nexus between the emerging economies. The research adds to the body of knowledge concerning international trade, energy economics, and emerging-market cooperation by offering empirical data on the way the institutional expansion alters the global economic relations. The findings provide a useful reference to policymakers who have to sail through a multipolar world economy in terms of trade and energy policies.
Psychosocial Impacts of Childlessness on Married Women in District Lower Dir
This paper examines the psychological effect of being childless among married women in District Lower Dir in Pakhtun society where motherhood and birth of sons features prominently in the social identity of women. The study is directed by the Social Stress Process Theory (SST) to identify the role of cultural expectations, gendered blame, and social pressures in causing emotional distress. A qualitative design was employed in which in depth interviews with 25 childless women aged 18-49 years in two Union Councils were held and a thematic analysis showed that they were sad, grieving, hopeless, anxious and inadequate supported by a sense of stigmatization and by the fear of losing their marriages. Regardless of these obstacles, there are examples of women who proved to be resilient with the help of meaning making, role redefinition and new non maternal acceptance. The study identifies a need of culturally appropriate interventions such as couple centered counseling, peer support, male involvement, and community based stigma reduction to assist the psychological well being of childless women in rural Pakistan.
A Critical Discourse Analysis of Imran Khan’s Speech at UNGA
The purpose of this research is to find out the ideology behind Imran Khan’s speech which he has delivered in UNGA. Both qualitative and quantitative paradigms have been used in this research. The speech has been analyzed through Fairclough three-dimensional model of Critical discourse analysis who said that through language people express their ideologies and power -relations and there is a relation between text, ideology and power. The result of study shows that Imran Khan has tried his best to present positive image of Islam and Pakistan and he has also presented problems of Kashmiri people and remembered UNGA members their duties in the matter of Kashmir. He also has presented the negative face of Modi in front of UNGA. The significance of this research is that it will help people to understand the hidden ideology of a political leader which he represents through the use of linguistic devices in his speech.
Psychological Effects of Memory and Trauma in Others Rooms Others Wonders
This research problem focuses on the ‘Memory and trauma in daniyal mueenuddin in others rooms other wonders’ The stories reveal a diverse world where people's aspirations and social standing are understood without being explained, and where poverty and the class structure are seen to have an impact on every choice made at pivotal points in the lives of the protagonists. The book is made up of eight interconnected stories that reflect Pakistani culture from within and were written in Pakistan in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. This study will investigate how trauma effects the individual and memory to form the identities and shapes. Further investigation will be done through the lens of psychological effects of socio-political events on the characters of the story. As for as post-colonial theory is concerned, it will be the part of this research as well. Concept of Homi K. Bhabha and Edward Said will by used to give theoratical framework to the research to know the effects of trauma on relationships, identities and social image.
Charting the Global Trajectory of Women’s Entrepreneurship (1975-2025): Networks, Themes, and Research Frontiers
This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global research on women’s entrepreneurship, mapping its intellectual evolution, thematic structure, and collaborative landscape. Using 3,168 peer-reviewed articles indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection (1975–2025), the study applies performance analysis and science-mapping techniques through Bibliometrix/Biblioshiny to examine scientific production, citation impact, conceptual domains, and international research networks. The findings reveal a sustained growth trajectory, with accelerated publication expansion after 2014, signaling the consolidation of women’s entrepreneurship as a mature scholarly field. Intellectual structure analysis identifies a gender-centric knowledge core interconnected with financial inclusion, innovation and performance, institutional environments, and socio-cultural determinants. Thematic evolution indicates a shift from descriptive gender discourse toward integrative frameworks linking empowerment, entrepreneurial outcomes, and development imperatives. Collaboration mapping highlights a hub-and-spoke global network dominated by the United States and Western Europe, with increasing contributions from emerging economies, particularly India and China. Despite conceptual richness, structural asymmetries persist in geographic representation and international collaboration. By integrating fragmented research streams, this study develops a multidimensional knowledge architecture that advances theoretical synthesis and policy relevance. The findings provide strategic insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to foster inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems and strengthen gender-responsive economic development worldwide.
Differential Comparatives: A Comparative Study of Pashto and Hindi/Urdu
The major goal of this study is to explore differential comparatives in Pashto. This is done while keeping the behavior of differential comparatives in Hindi/Urdu (H/U) (Bhatt & Homer 2018) and English before us. The analysis of differential comparatives is carried out, first, in terms of differences between bare comparatives and differential comparatives, and then, in terms of differential comparatives as a constituent, argument structure restrictions, and adjacency restrictions. Since Pashto is a TAM based split-ergative Indo-Iranian language, therefore, the expectation is that the differential comparatives in Pashto would be a replica of differential comparatives in H/U in terms of different features; however, after this study, it is established that there are substantial differences between Pashto and H/U. Consequently, an argument structure is proposed for Pashto, which is completely different from the one proposed for H/U.
Analysis of Teachers Coordination with students at School level: A Performance Analysis
Management is the process of planning, organizing leading, controlling the work of organizational members, and using all available organizational resources to reach the organizational goals. The management is the way of presenting the art of organization to accomplish the goals. The management is the way of presenting the art of organization to accomplish the goals. Management is the process of getting work done effectively, efficiently, and through other people to achieve expected goals, which is managing resources, employees, and other obstacles to the organization to fulfill its goals and teacher coordination. So that the training of instructors can be planned and organized. In this study, a questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale was conducted on 400 teachers by using a simple stratified sampling technique. The teacher’s coordination is measured separately, which has 23 items. The results showed that teachers’ coordination has a great value.
Marital Satisfaction, Social Stigma and Mental Health in Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently experience mental health challenges due to caregiving demands, social stigma, and marital challenges, which may adversely affect their mental health. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between marital satisfaction, social stigma, andmental health among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Using a correlational research design, data were collected over the course of the study through purposive sampling from parents whose children from 3 to 13 years of age were receiving educational, therapeutic, and early intervention services at public and private institutions of Faisalabad. The study employed a demographic information sheet, the Enrich Marital Satisfaction Scale Urdu Version ( Anjum, 2024), the Social Stigma Scale Urdu Version (Mazhar & Qurban, 2020), and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale Urdu Version (Aslam & Kamal, 2017). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participants’ characteristics, while Pearson product–moment correlation, multiple regression analysis, and independent-samples t-tests were conducted to examine the proposed relationships. The findings indicated that greater marital satisfaction was associated with lower levels of social stigma and less mental health challenges. Social stigma showed a strong positive association with mental health problems and emerged as the most influential predictor of mental health outcomes. Furthermore, marital satisfaction and social stigma together accounted for a substantial proportion of variance in parents’ mental health. No significant differences were observed based on parent gender, child gender, or sibling impairment. The findings emphasize the need for psycho-social interventions aimed at reducing social stigma and strengthening marital relationships to improve the mental health and well-being of parents raising children with ASD.
Alexithymia, Emotional Regulation, and Mental Health Outcomes in Young Females Facing Gender Discrimination
This study looked into Alexithymia as a predictor of Mental Health Emotional Regulation in Young Female Facing gender discrimination in Pakistan. In this study a sample of 450 young female, aged 16 to 22, using a purposive sampling method. The participants filled out the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS- 20), DASS-21, Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and the Perceived Gender Discrimination Scale. The study conducted descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple regression analyses to explore the relationships among the study variables. The correlation results revealed significant links between the dimensions of alexithymia and various mental health indicators. However, the regression analyses indicated that alexithymia did not significantly predict perceived gender discrimination or stress, and it showed only weak to moderate predictive power for other mental health outcomes and emotional regulation. These findings imply that while alexithymia is connected to emotional and psychological functioning, it doesn't independently predict mental health or experiences of discrimination in this group. This study adds to the existing literature by delving into alexithymia in the context of South Asian culture, shedding light on the intricate relationship between how emotions are processed and the experiences of discrimination. It also discusses important implications for mental health professionals, suggests directions for future research, and offers policy recommendations.
Representation of Female Experiences and Struggles in Ernaux's Novel Happening: A French Feminist Study
This study examines the representation of female experiences and struggles in Annie Ernaux’s autobiographical novel Happening (L’Événement), focusing on the intersection of personal suffering and sociocultural constraints in mid-twentieth-century France. Drawing on Simone de Beauvoir’s feminist theory, particularly The Second Sex, the research explores how Ernaux articulates women’s psychological, emotional, and bodily struggles within a patriarchal society that criminalized abortion and silenced female autonomy. Employing a qualitative textual analysis, the study closely reads selected passages to reveal how Ernaux transforms a deeply personal experience of an illegal abortion into a broader feminist critique of gendered oppression, class inequality, and reproductive control. The findings demonstrate that Happening not only exposes the trauma and isolation endured by women facing unwanted pregnancy but also challenges dominant social, legal, and moral discourses that regulate female bodies and desires. By foregrounding lived experience, memory, and resistance, Ernaux’s narrative reclaims female subjectivity and highlights a collective feminine struggle for autonomy and self-definition. This study contributes to feminist literary criticism by addressing the underexplored dimensions of women’s experiences and resilience in Happening, extending existing scholarship beyond abortion as a singular event to encompass broader sociopsychological and ideological constraints shaping women’s lives.
Negotiating Tradition and Modernity: A Discourse-Historical Study of Okot P’Bitek’s Song of Lawino
This study examines the negotiation of tradition and modernity in Okot p’Bitek’s Song of Lawino using Ruth Wodak’s Discourse-Historical Approach (DHA) within Critical Discourse Analysis. The poem, a significant postcolonial African literary text, reflects the ideological conflict between indigenous African cultural traditions and Western modernity shaped by colonial history. The research adopts a qualitative textual analysis focusing on discursive strategies such as nomination, predication, argumentation, intensification, metaphor, satire, and intertextual references to Acholi oral traditions. The analysis demonstrates how Lawino represents African cultural identity and resistance, while Ocol symbolizes Westernized modernity influenced by colonial education, religion, and social norms. Findings indicate that the poem does not simply reject modernity but critically negotiates it by highlighting cultural alienation, identity conflict, and the persistence of indigenous traditions. The study concludes that Song of Lawino functions as a discursive site where postcolonial identity, cultural resistance, and historical memory are constructed through language.
Exploring Elements of Postcolonial Theory in Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's Devil on the Cross: Cultural Imperialism, Mimicry, and Hybridity in Post-Independence Kenya
This study examines Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's seminal novel Devil on the Cross (1982) through the analytical lens of postcolonial theory, focusing on the concepts of cultural imperialism, mimicry, hybridity, and ambivalence as articulated by theorists such as Homi K. Bhabha, Edward Said, and Frantz Fanon. The novel presents a scathing critique of post-independence Kenya, revealing how neocolonial structures perpetuate the exploitation of the working class and the marginalization of women within a capitalist framework that mirrors colonial oppression. Through close textual analysis, this research demonstrates how Thiong'o deconstructs the colonial legacy's impact on African societies, particularly examining the protagonist Jacinta Wariinga's journey from victimhood to revolutionary consciousness. The study argues that Devil on the Cross serves as both a literary masterpiece and a political manifesto, exposing the psychological and economic dimensions of cultural imperialism while advocating for authentic African identity and resistance against neocolonial domination. By employing qualitative content analysis and examining key passages from the novel, this research reveals how postcolonial elements manifest in character development, narrative structure, and thematic concerns. The findings demonstrate that Thiong'o's work illuminates the stratification within African nations, the perpetuation of colonial mentalities among the postcolonial elite, and the vital role of women's resistance in challenging oppressive systems. This analysis contributes to broader discussions of decolonization, cultural authenticity, and gender politics in postcolonial African literature.
Study on The Physio-Chemical Composition of Industrial (Hotel, Sweet Shop, Milk Vending Shop) made Dahi Karachi Sindh Pakistan
The four hundred samples of industrial and conventional made Dahi samples were studied for their physio-chemical and organoleptic properties. hundred samples of industrial yoghurt designated as “A “were collected from Karachi (Dairy fresh yoghurt manufactured dairy food industry Pvt ltd Karachi. while 300 samples of conventional made Dahi were obtained from different sources of Tando Jam and Hyderabad city designated as “B “(hotel) “C “(Sweet shop) and “D “(milk vending shops) made Dahi. According to the statistical analysis no significant difference was found in Ph values and acidity percentage amongst all types of Dahi samples, but significant difference was observed in fat and total solid percentages. the lowest fat percentage was recorded from the sample “A “with an average of 2.48 ±0.050, while Dahi sample of “C” showed highest fat percentage with an average 5.071±0.123.The highest total solid % with an average of 13.81150±0.20178 were recorded from samples “C” and lowest from sample Yoghurt with an average of 12.3468±0.120.According to the results of organoleptic evaluation the maximum score maximum score given by the panel of judges to sample “C” followed by samples of A,B and D.
Social Work Practice with Older Adults: Addressing Mental Health Issues in the Aging Population in Punjab, Pakistan
Pakistan is undergoing a slow but pronounced rise in aged population, especially in Punjab where the socioeconomic inequality and population concentration worsen the age vulnerabilities. Mental health problems in the elderly are extremely high in this area; the elderly are subject to depression, anxiety, loneliness, and psychosocial distress that are usually increased by chronic disease, poverty, and a declining family support structure. The aim of the research is to establish the prevalence and the nature of mental health problems among older adults in Punjab, Pakistan. To investigate the practice and role of professional social workers in solving mental health problems in the older adults in Punjab. To examine the barriers and challenges to access and provision of mental health services to the aging population in Punjab through the lens of older adults and social workers. To evaluate the feasibility of the current social work interventions and support systems in enhancing mental health and psychosocial welfare in older adults in Punjab, Pakistan. In this study, a qualitative research design was used because the researcher sought to provide a detailed insight into the mental health problems of older adults and the role of social work practice in Punjab, Pakistan. It was done in some urban and semi-urban districts of Punjab, Pakistan, where demographic aging and the access to social and health services pose unique problems. The sample population included older adults of 60 years or older who face mental health issues and professional social workers dealing with geriatric or community-based services. Purposive sampling was also used to draw the participants who had pertinent knowledge and experience pertaining to the topic of the research. The semi-structured in-depth interviews were used in data collection where the interviewer was free to enquire about the experiences of the participants without losing uniformity in the interviews. They were analyzed as part of thematic analysis as the data collected underwent a systematic coding, categorization, and theme development. The method has made it possible to identify recurring patterns that are associated with mental issues, social work practice, and service delivery obstacles.
Algorithmic Neuro-Stimulation and the Attentional Gate: A Neuropsychological Evaluation of TikTok’s Feedback Loops in Eliciting Secondary ADHD Symptoms in Children
This study assesses the effect of algorithmic neurostimulation and attentional gating processes on the incitement of secondary symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children aged 8-12 years who experienced the feedback-based structure of TikTok's content. The type of study design was a cross-sectional study, and the sample size was 40 children chosen using a stratified random sampling method, depending on age and gender. Pediatric outpatient departments (OPDs), child psychology clinics, and selected primary schools were the research locations, as they described both clinical manifestations and actual behavioural manifestations. The validated instruments, such as the Conners Rating Scale-Revised (CPRS-R) to assess ADHD symptomatology, the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) to assess behavioral patterns, the Digit Span Test, and the Stroop Color-Word Test to measure attention and executive functioning, and a Structured Screen-Time and TikTok Usage Questionnaire to record the frequency, duration, and engagement with algorithmically curated content, were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis were used as statistical analysis methods to establish the relation between patterns of TikTok exposure and attentional outcomes. The results showed that there is a meaningful interaction between long-term exposure to algorithm-based short-form video material and the development of inattention, impulsivity, and decreased sustainability of attention, which suggests the existence of secondary symptoms of ADHD, but not primary neurodevelopmental ADHD. These findings underscore the importance of disruption of the attentional gate by a continuous loop of algorithmic feedback and the need to screen children early, counsel parents, and follow evidence-based guidelines to control exposure to highly arousing digital media environments.
Exploring Tidal Architecture: Amphibious Building Systems for Coastal Communities in Flux
This research employed a mixed-methods approach to investigate amphibious building systems for coastal communities experiencing tidal fluctuations. The study selected three coastal sites through purposive sampling based on tidal range, flooding frequency, and community vulnerability to sea-level variations. Data collection involved structured surveys administered to 120 coastal residents to assess their flooding experiences, existing adaptive strategies, and housing requirements. The researcher conducted systematic observations using a standardized assessment tool to evaluate current building typologies, foundation systems, and flood-resilient features across 80 coastal dwellings. Semi-structured interviews with 25 residents explored their lived experiences with tidal changes, seasonal flooding patterns, and perceptions of amphibious housing solutions. Additionally, the study engaged 8 local boat builders, 6 traditional fishermen, and 4 marine engineers through focus group discussions to understand indigenous water-based construction knowledge and buoyancy principles. Hydrological data collection involved measuring tidal levels, flood depths, and water velocity at selected sites over a six-month period. The researcher analyzed precedent amphibious structures globally through case study documentation to identify successful design strategies and technical mechanisms. Three amphibious building prototypes were developed incorporating floating foundations, vertical guidance systems, and flexible utility connections, then presented to communities for feedback through participatory design charrettes. Quantitative environmental and structural data underwent technical analysis, while qualitative data were thematically coded to extract community needs and design preferences for tidal-responsive architecture.
The Russia–Ukraine War and the Reconfiguration of the Global Order
The Russia-Ukraine war is still going on, and the end result is still unknown. However, it has already become one of the most important geopolitical crises of the 21st century. The war has had a huge impact on how countries interact with each other today, and it has directly challenged the global order that came about after the Soviet Union fell apart in 1991. That time was when the US became the only superpower, but the war has shown that US dominance is not as strong as it used to be and that unipolarity is becoming more difficult to maintain. The war has caused a lot of damage in Ukraine and lost land to Russia, which is not what the US and its allies expected, especially when it comes to European influence growing in Russia. These changes point to a decline in US power in world affairs and a move away from a unipolar world toward a multipolar one. The war between Russia and Ukraine has also changed the way countries work together, leading to NATO's strategic renewal, the reorganization of European security, and a growing divide between Western countries and Russia. European countries have had to pay a lot of money, while China and other rising powers have become more confident in challenging the status quo. The conflict is between two regional actors, but its effects are felt around the world, changing the balance of power, alliances, and the future of international politics. The war is not just a fight between countries; it is also a fight over different political and economic systems.
Illicit Arms Trafficking in Pakistan: Sources, Circulation Patterns, and Security Challenges
Illicit arms trafficking in Pakistan is a persistent and multifaceted challenge that significantly undermines national security, social stability, and regional peace. The proliferation of small arms and light weapons originates from a combination of factors, including historical conflicts, cross-border smuggling, local production, and deeply embedded cultural acceptance of firearms. Weapons flow into the country through porous borders, particularly from Afghanistan, and are supplemented by locally manufactured firearms from artisanal hubs such as Darra Adam Khel. These illicit arms are widely available, often unregistered, and frequently exploited by criminal networks, militant organizations, and insurgent groups, contributing to rising violent crime, sectarian conflict, and terrorism. The widespread presence of firearms exacerbates insecurity in both urban and rural communities, erodes public trust in law enforcement, and hinders socioeconomic development. Compounding the problem are regulatory gaps, weak enforcement mechanisms, and limited regional cooperation, which allow illegal arms markets to thrive and adapt to changing circumstances. Addressing this complex issue requires a comprehensive understanding of the sources, circulation patterns, and security implications of illicit firearms, along with integrated strategies that combine legal reform, enforcement, cultural awareness, socioeconomic development, and regional collaboration. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers, law enforcement, and civil society to formulate effective interventions that reduce the prevalence of illicit arms, enhance public safety, and strengthen state authority, ultimately contributing to sustainable peace and stability in Pakistan and the broader region.
Evaluating the Impact and Determinants of Agricultural Extension Services on Potato Farming in District Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa- Pakistan
Agriculture extension is the sole department which provides a bridge for flow of information between research and farmers. It plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity, improving farming practices, and increasing the livelihoods of farming community. This study aimed to analyze the agricultural extension activities in District Abbottabad Khyber Pakhtunkhwa-Pakistan including the types of services provided, the effectiveness of these services and the challenges faced by extension workers. Data were collected from 112 sample respondents from four selected villages. The firsthand data were analyzed through SPSS v.20. The demographic attributes revealed that majority of the respondents were literate (68.8%), (42.9%) respondents were from age group of 51 and above. About (33.0%) of the respondents were landholding up to 5.1 acres and above and having good farming experience of 21years and above (83.9%). The yield obtained, seed rate used pre and post training were computed through paired sample t-test. The outcomes indicated a significant difference (p<0.01) with (401.223 kg/acre) increase in potato yield after training. While a significant difference (p<0.01) was recorded for seed rate with the mean difference value decreased after training. Chi-square test was used to assess the association between various variables. Total land holding had significant association with knowledge about extension department at 1% probability level. Farmers’ literacy rate also had significant association with knowledge about extension department at 5% probability level. The results show that while agricultural extension services were being provided in the district, there are some important gaps in the coverage and quality of these services. The study identified key challenges, including poor financial conditions, water scarcity and less no of extension workers. The study recommends that policymakers should prioritize the strengthening of agricultural extension services in District Abbottabad.
Power Politics and Legal Norms: How Great Powers Shape International Law Enforcement
The international legal order embodies a fundamental tension between the normative principle of sovereign equality and the practical dominance of power politics exercised by great powers. This paper examines how hegemonic states shape, interpret, and selectively enforce international law to advance their strategic interests while evading accountability. Drawing on realist, liberal institutionalist, and constructivist theoretical frameworks, it analyzes the interplay between material power and legal norms, highlighting mechanisms such as the UN Security Council's veto power, procedural dominance (penholding and double veto), unilateral sanctions, and economic statecraft. Through case studies including the 2003 Iraq invasion, China's rejection of the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling, Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and U.S. sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) under Executive Order 14203 the analysis reveals patterns of selective compliance, exceptionalism, and the weaponization of legal tools (lawfare). The paper further explores counter-hegemonic responses, including Third World Approaches to International Law (TWAIL), which challenge Western-centric hierarchies and advocate for democratized legal discourse. Ultimately, while international law exhibits resilience through formal consent-based sources and normative stickiness, its enforcement remains contingent on great power consent and capabilities, perpetuating a hierarchical global order that undermines universal rule-of-law aspirations.
Analyzing the Impact of STEM Curriculum on Students' Motor Skills Development at Secondary Level
Background: The investments in foreign port infrastructure by China, most notably the Red Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean are all part of its maritime logistics diplomacy within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The purpose of these investments is to create globalized trade connectivity as well as territorial geopolitical power of China via the creation of strategic ports. Purpose: This paper discusses the significance of Chinese investments in major sea ports, their impact on the growth of an economy, the increase of a trading volume, on the development of diplomatic power and regional politics in the Red Sea and Eastern Mediterranean areas. Method: It was a qualitative case study with the analysis of documents, port performance statistics, and interviews with professionals. A comparative cross-case analysis was made to study the strategic results of investing in five most important ports Piraeus, Djibouti, Tanger Med, Port Said and Mombasa. Results: The findings revealed that the amount of trade volume increased significantly in each of the ports after the investment, with the largest rates in Djibouti and Piraeus. The scores of diplomatic engagement were good collaborations, with economic impacts showing significant increases in the GDP and creation of employment opportunities, especially in Djibouti and Piraeus. The scores in geopolitical influence pointed to the growing strategic advantages of China in the regions. Conclusion: The investment of Chinese ports has redefined logistics networks, which have led to economic and diplomatic development and increased the geopolitical power of China in strategic sea routes.
Maritime Logistics Diplomacy: Chinese Investments in Red Sea and Eastern Mediterranean Ports
The Use of Emergency Powers by States and Their Effects on Non-Derogable Human Rights: With Special Reference to Pakistan
Emergency powers are an option that is familiar in the application of the states in dealing with emergencies such as war, terrorism, natural and civil disasters. However, in situations of crisis, the increase in executive powers have frequently resulted in the deterioration of the law and the deterioration of civil rights. Research questions of this research are: To analyze the legal considerations and global regulations on the use of emergency powers and protection of non-derogable human rights. To study the application of the emergency powers in Pakistan, the conditions, area, and period of such declarations. To determine the role that emergency powers play in affecting the non-derogable human rights in Pakistan with special emphasis on rights like the right to life, freedom of torture and due process. To assess how successful institutional checks and balances are in Pakistan in ensuring that emergency powers are not abused or that non-derogative human rights are not violated. The study design used in the research is qualitative research design since I want to determine the manner in which the states invoke emergency powers and its effects on non-derogable human rights in Pakistan. The information is collected through an evaluation of documents, i.e., the primary and secondary sources are systematically analyzed, i.e., the Constitution of Pakistan, legislative means, and international treaties. Triangulation is also being done with secondary sources like scholarly articles and reports of the human rights movement. This method is suitable in the explanation of the law and documented impacts of human rights. It was thematic analysis research to identify themes and patterns that were repeated in the data collected. These themes are the statutory power of emergencies, the scope and duration, justification and impacts of the emergency on non-derogable rights, that is, life, the ban of torture, and the due process. The qualitative nature of the research under the study perhaps could be an impediment to generalization since the findings are not universal as they are specific to the situation in Pakistan.
Mapping out Images of Warrior Women in Stieg Larsson’s The Millennium Trilogy (2005-2010)
This paper explores the portrayal of miscellaneous warrior women in Stieg Larsson’s The Millennium Trilogy (2005-2010). It not only analyses the existence of these queer women in their various avatars such as masculine women, tomboys and fighter women, but it also debunks the misconceptions associated with them by the hegemonic Swedish society. Judith Halberstam’s queer theory provides a lens to study how these unconventional female identities along with the complexity of their unremitting conflicts transition into being empowered women from being mere survivors in the past. It further lends a deeper insight into their survival and fighting mechanisms such as an inclusive sisterhood, formation of a second identity, undaunting sense of selfhood, and silent observation of their surroundings. The trilogy’s feminist narrative shows that mindful social change is indispensable to eventually end female isolation, exploitation and marginalization by creating acceptance for women who possess a strong sense of self and individuality in the 21st century milieu.
The Correlation of Phantom Vibration Syndrome (PVS) with Sleep Quality and Psychological Distress
The current study aimed to determine whether there is a significant relationship between Phantom Vibration Syndrome (PVS), sleep quality, and psychological distress. The population selected for the study consisted of undergraduate students from various private and government universities in Karachi, including both male and female students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. A total of 452 participants were selected using purposive convenience sampling, and a quantitative correlational survey design was employed. Phantom Vibration Syndrome, sleep quality, and psychological distress were assessed using the Assessment of Prevalence on Phantom Vibration Syndrome, the Sleep Quality Scale (SQS), and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale-10 (K-10), respectively. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS (Version 22). The findings indicated a significant relationship between Phantom Vibration Syndrome and both variables: sleep quality and psychological distress. The results showed a positive relationship between Phantom Vibration Syndrome and psychological distress and a negative relationship with sleep quality. It was also revealed that most individuals experience Phantom Vibration Syndrome at night during sleep, while some experience it at other times as well. This study may help individuals become more aware of the symptoms of PVS, enabling them to limit their smartphone usage and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing Phantom Vibration Syndrome.
Climate Change Perception and Behavioral Adaptation in Punjab: The Mediating Role of Environmental Sensitivity
This paper discussed the mediating factor on the perception-adaptation relationship of climate change is the environmental sensitivity, which is the cognitive awareness, concern, and emotional responsiveness of the environmental change amongst individuals. The quantitative cross-sectional design was used to gather data and the sample size consisted of 250 adult residents living in Sargodha, Pakistan. The measurement of climate change perception, environmental sensitivity, behavioral adaptation and pro-environmental behavior was done using standardized survey instruments. The SPSS was used to perform correlation, regression, and mediation analysis. The findings demonstrate that all the important variables have strong positive associations. The perception of climate change proved to be a great predictor of behavioral adaptation and pro-environmental behavior. The results highlight the significance of incorporating the emotional and perceptual aspects in climate communication and policy interventions. By identifying environmental sensitivity as one of the major psychological processes, the current study adds to the environmental and sustainable behaviors within the climate-vulnerable communities.
English as Opportunity: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Language Policy in a Pakistani University
This work examines the language policy in a Pakistani university in relation to how English is constructed in the institution and how this language is constructed as an opportunity for students, with particular reference to the consequences of the language policy for non-native English speakers. Using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as the theoretical framework, the research examines university's formal language policy documents with semi-structured interviews of faculty members and students. The results have shown that while English is seen as a vital instrument to success in academia and international professional opportunities, it also presents significant barriers to students who are not competent in the language. These students are difficult to have in class as they face academic challenges such as difficulty comprehending material read in class, conducting class discussions and other activities such as completing prescribed tasks. The study includes the need for more inclusive language policies with adequate language support for non-native English speakers. The research underlies the importance of reviewing language policies to enable all students to have equal possibilities to study, regardless of their linguistic background.
Importance of Carrier Decisions Among Higher Secondary School Students in District Dir Lower
This study aimed at exploring the importance of career decisions at the higher secondary school level in District Dir Lower. For conducting this research qualitative approach was adopted. The population of this study was all the teachers of higher secondary school of district Dir Lower from which sample of 10-teachers was selected through purposive sampling technique. Thematic analysis was carried performed for the analysis of data. The findings of data highlighted that career decisions at this transitional phase of education is a highly significant and life-determining process that shape the pathways of academic and professional success. The findings also highlighted that career decisions at this stage of education guarantees career success, and future socio-economic stability. The findings has also indicated that the informed and aligned decision-making at higher secondary school level is useful in the efficient utilization of human capital and other resources for better academic outcomes and potential employment prospects. So from the above findings it is concluded that career decisions at higher secondary school level are highly important for promoting academics excellence and future professional stability and employment opportunities.
Shariah Compliance Challenges in Islamic FinTech in Pakistan: Institutional Gaps, Regulatory Alignment, and Market Practice
This study investigated the challenges of Shariah compliance in the Islamic FinTech sector in Pakistan, focusing on institutional gaps, regulatory alignment, and market practices. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews of 300 participants, including regulators, Shariah scholars, and FinTech practitioners. Quantitative findings revealed that lack of standardized Shariah advisory mechanisms, limited internal compliance frameworks, and weak monitoring processes were significant institutional barriers, with over 60% of respondents highlighting these as critical. Regulatory analysis indicated inconsistencies between FinTech operations and Shariah rules, unclear compliance guidelines, and insufficient supervisory support, constraining the effective implementation of compliant financial products. Qualitative insights complemented these findings, emphasizing operational challenges such as misalignment of digital products with Shariah principles, limited consumer awareness, and inadequate technological integration for compliance. The study concluded that institutional weaknesses, regulatory gaps, and operational inefficiencies were interlinked, creating systemic obstacles to sustainable Shariah-compliant innovation. Recommendations included the establishment of standardized Shariah advisory frameworks, enhanced regulatory support through clear guidelines and sandbox initiatives, capacity building for compliance personnel, and consumer education programs to strengthen trust and adoption. Future research directions were proposed to examine the impact of emerging technologies, comparative regulatory practices, and longitudinal effects of institutional reforms on Shariah compliance in Islamic FinTech. Overall, the study provided practical insights for policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders aiming to develop a robust, Shariah-compliant FinTech ecosystem in Pakistan.
Personality Dimensions and Compulsive Buying Behavior among Female Students: A Predictive Analysis
Background: Compulsive Buying Disorder (CBD), also known as oniomania, is now becoming an increasing psychological issue for many students entering college. This condition affects more females attending college due to their unique pressures financially and socially during their transition into being independent. Purpose: The intent of this study was to investigate if personality traits measured through the Big Five Personality Factors (Extraversions, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Neuroticism, and Openness to New Experience) determined how compulsively a female student at Gujrat would engage in CBB. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from 500 female undergraduate and graduate degree students. Convenient sampling technique was used to select the sample size. The Richmond Compulsive Buying Scale (RCBS) and the Big Five Inventory-2 Short version (BFI-2XS) was used to measure. The study used Pearson product-moment correlation and a multiple linear regression analysis (MLR) using SPSS 26. Results: The multiple regression analysis results indicated that only 3.6% of the variance in CBD could be explained by the Big Five Personality Factors; therefore this result marginal does not support to reject the null (p= .052). Alternatively, the analysis by each individual participant revealed that the two personality traits found to positively predict compulsive shopping were Extraversion (with a beta coefficient of .15 and a p-value of .011) and Neuroticism (with a beta coefficient of .16 and a p-value of .009). All three additional personality traits, i.e., Conscientiousness, Agreeableness, and Openness to Experience, were not found to predict compulsive shopping in the current sample. Therefore, it can be concluded from these findings that emotional instability and sociability are correlated with the likelihood to exhibit compulsive consumption among female college students. Even though only a small amount of variation in the compulsive consumption behavior was explained by the personality traits, the results suggest there is a need for developing targeted programs to foster the emotional regulation and social-capital-seeking behaviors of those exhibiting compulsive consumption behaviors through psychological treatment and financial literacy programs.
The Impact of Climate Change and Floods in Pakistan: Challenges and Way Forward
The study delivers a deep analysis to scrutinise essential notions regarding causes, impacts, and challenges of climate change. Pakistan is considered one of the top five countries vulnerable to climate-related problems. Climate change has become one of the major reasons worldwide. The worse metrological conditions include various natural disasters such as abrupt increases in temperature, deteriorating precipitation patterns, and rapid glacier melting. One of the greatest dilemmas is that climate-induced floods have escalated in regularity and intensity, paving the way for massive complications to the social, governmental, and economic systems of Pakistan. Frequent torrents led to loss of human lives and grievous harm to infrastructure. The qualitative research is used to conduct this research. In conclusion, floods are unrestrained, but their effects can be overcome through resilient planning and strategies, good infrastructure, and reforms. The government of Pakistan must associate national advancement with meteorological dimensions and mitigate the impact of climate change.
Gender, Persuasion, and Political Communication: A Comparative Corpus-Assisted Discourse Analysis of Public Addresses by Pakistani Politicians
This paper explores the influence of gender in persuasion and politics as a means to build political power in political speeches in Pakistan by politicians. On this basis of understanding that leadership is practiced by use of language, the study explores whether male and female speakers have different rhetorical strategies that they use to establish legitimacy and congruence with the audience. The proposed study assumes comparative mixed methods study in the context of Corpus-Assisted Discourse Studies (CADS) with the quantitative corpus methodology and the interpretation of the findings through a qualitative lens, using the Critical Discourse Analysis and gender performance theory. A purposive sampling was used to compile a special corpus of transcribed speeches in order to achieve a representation of similar public events and political status of male and female politicians. Recurrent persuasive tendencies were identified using such tools as the analysis of key words, collocation analysis, pronoun analysis, stance analysis and modality analysis and applied to the Pakistan socio-political context. Results show that there are patterned variation and not absolute division. Rhetoric of urgency, confrontation, categorical commitment enjoy more frequent use by male politicians, building the power by force and mobilization. Female politicians are more likely to predict inclusion, service and joint advancement, to rationalize leadership using accountability and care. They both are convincing but take discursive paths. It suggests that to gain better knowledge about gendered political communication, the study should increase the multilingual corpora and include reception analysis as well as cross-national comparisons.
Understanding the Social Construction of Trust in E-Commerce: An Interpretivist Inquiry
This research gives an understanding of the philosophy of trust in E-commerce. In online environments where security, risk, usability and other factors are important but social interaction, experience plays key factor in adaptation of E-commerce. Researchers in this study explain the interpretivist approach in which buyer and seller experience, social interaction, and mutual aspects decide whether to opt E-commerce or not. Researchers used qualitative analyses in this study to focus on the human experience related to E-commerce trust. Research study, reviews, social proof, communication style, brand reputation, cultural factors which shape trust. Although researchers also evaluate customer service, digital platform reliability shapes consumer trust. This study gives guidelines to businesses to develop and implement strategies which strengthen the trust of consumers which support socio-cultural digital economy acceptable the majority.
China’s Expanding Geopolitical Influence and Its Implications for Peace, Security, and Regional Order in East and Central Asia
This study examined China’s expanding geopolitical influence and its implications for peace, security, and regional order in East and Central Asia between 2013 and 2024. Using a qualitative multiple case study design, the research analyzed policy documents, institutional frameworks, and security cooperation patterns to assess how China’s economic, institutional, and military engagement reshaped regional dynamics. The findings indicated differentiated subregional outcomes. In Central Asia, economic integration under infrastructure initiatives and institutional participation within China-led organizations reinforced political alignment and contributed to relative regime stability. In contrast, East Asia experienced intensified strategic competition, particularly in maritime domains, where economic interdependence coexisted with balancing behavior and alliance reinforcement. The study demonstrated that China’s geopolitical expansion operated through economic leverage, institutional embedding, and selective security cooperation; however, its effects were contingent upon geographic context, alliance structures, and historical rivalries. The research concluded that China’s rise neither uniformly destabilized nor stabilized the region but instead produced layered and complex transformations within the regional order. Policy recommendations emphasized diversified partnerships, confidence-building mechanisms, and inclusive institutional engagement to sustain regional peace.
Personality in the Digital Age: Dark Traits, Self-Esteem, and Online Shopping Addiction among College Teachers
Online shopping is a ubiquitous aspect of the modern way of life and to certain people, the behavior may become addictive and the personality type will be a determinant. This paper examines the associations that exist between dark personality factors, self-esteem, and online shopping addiction among college teachers. In particular, it was theorized that the notion of narcissism would be positively correlated with the self-esteem, whereas psychopathy would be connected with the increased rates of online shopping addiction. The correlational research design was used and 204 college teachers across Lahore were sampled using purposive sampling. The respondents took the Short Dark Triad Scale (Jones and Paulhus, 2013), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (Rosenberg, 1965), and the Online Shopping Addiction Scale (Zhao et al., 2017), as well as a demographic survey. The relationships between the variables were considered using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analyses. Findings showed that there was a high positive correlation between narcissism and self-esteem thus showing self-enhancing nature of narcissistic individuals. Interestingly, psychopathy also demonstrated a strong negative correlation with online shopping addiction, in the domains of withdrawal, relapse and conflict. There was also gender variation as male teachers registered high percentages of self-esteem as opposed to females. The findings illuminate the psychological processes that explain online shopping behavior of educators and offer useful information to educators, policymakers, and mental health professionals to detect and address personality-related weaknesses in academic settings.
Role of NGOs in Women's Empowerment: A Survey-Based Analysis
Women’s empowerment is an increasingly recognized aspect of sustainable development but in Pakistan it is still limited by the persistence of socio-cultural practices, institutional failure, and gender discrimination. This research explores key constraints to women's empowerment and assesses the perceived role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in dealing with these constraints. Based on survey data from young women in Karachi, the study investigates perceptions on five key dimensions: social and cultural constraints; educational and institutional settings; support and assistance schemes from NGOs; knowledge of legal regulations; and safety and mobility. The results demonstrate a strong consensus that patriarchal family norms, gender discrimination, and social stigma are still the most important constraints that limit women's empowerment by restricting their autonomy and decision-making power. While education is considered a key driver of empowerment by large sections of opinion, the respondents highlighted that issues of harassment, institutional reputation, and lack of support mechanisms decrease their overall impact. Similarly, NGOs were considered useful partners through their provision of counseling services, awareness workshops, legal literacy programs, and self-defense trainings; however, cultural resistance and limited outreach reduce their accessibility for many women. There was also a moderate level of awareness about legal rights and low levels of confidence in law enforcement and judicial mechanisms on account of procedural delays and perceived institutional bias. Safety and mobility issues, particularly in public transport, were considered an important constraint that limits women's ability to access academic, professional, and social spaces. This study, therefore, emphasizes that any genuine and sustainable empowerment for women in Pakistan necessitates multi-sectoral efforts that reinforce accountability of institutional mechanisms, expand NGO outreach programs, and ensure safe, inclusive, and gender responsive environments.
Workplace Mistreatment and Psychological Distress Among Employees of an Airline and Its Effects on Passengers in the Commercial Airline Industry of Pakistan
The research study examines the enhancement of the passenger check-in process at Pakistani airline, through the integration of advanced technologies and contemporary communication strategies. The study addresses critical operational inefficiencies, communication gaps, passenger awareness challenges and employee dissatisfaction that hinder check-in efficiency. Employing a quantitative research approach, secondary data from Airline’s management and frontline staff were combined with a comprehensive literature review and questionnaire surveys with the employee’s associated with aviation. Furthermore, the study investigates the influence of psychological factors including employee psychological distress, abusive supervision and workplace bullying on the operational performance of check-in staff, utilizing a structural equation modeling approach (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed hypotheses. The findings revealed that technological integration alone is insufficient to enhance operational efficiency without the support of effective communication and employee well-being initiatives. Notably, abusive supervision and workplace bullying significantly contributes to psychological distress among employees, adversely affecting their job performance and passenger interactions. This study recommends implementing multi-channel communication strategies, enhancing employee support programs and continuously monitoring check-in performance metrics to optimize passenger experiences. These insights offer practical guidance for an airline and similar airlines aiming to improve operational efficiency while fostering a positive and supportive work environment. The focus of this study is to enhance airline passenger’s check-in efficiency through technological integrations and modern communication strategies. The aim of the study is to identify issues related to extended check-in procedures and suggest enhancements that improve the passenger check-in efficiency of an airline. Options like check-in via smartphones, technological integrations, immediate communication with passenger’s and staff training to ensure smooth operations, are important areas to focus on. To ensure that airline provides an enhanced and effective check-in experience, the goal is to decrease wait time, minimize error and enhance overall passenger experiences.
Intelligent Fleet and Delivery Management: AI Applications for Real-Time Routing, Scheduling, and Performance Control
This study examined the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) applications on intelligent fleet and delivery management, focusing specifically on real-time routing, adaptive scheduling, and performance control systems. The research aimed to determine how these AI-driven technologies influenced fleet operational performance in terms of efficiency, reliability, cost reduction, and asset utilization. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from fleet managers and logistics professionals using structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, reliability testing, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis, were conducted to evaluate the relationships among variables. The findings revealed that AI-based real-time routing significantly enhanced route optimization and reduced delivery delays. Adaptive scheduling systems improved responsiveness to fluctuating demand and resource allocation challenges. Performance control mechanisms, particularly predictive maintenance and telematics monitoring, demonstrated the strongest positive influence on operational performance. The regression model indicated that AI applications collectively explained a substantial proportion of variance in fleet performance outcomes. The study concluded that integrated AI frameworks provided measurable operational advantages and strengthened decision-making capabilities in logistics environments. Organizations adopting comprehensive AI-based fleet management systems achieved higher efficiency, improved service quality, and greater competitive advantage. The research contributed to the growing body of knowledge on smart logistics and offered practical implications for managers seeking to optimize fleet operations through advanced analytics and automation technologies.
Impact of Trade Openness and Human Capital on Economic Growth: A Time Series Analysis for Pakistan
The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of trade openness and human capital on economic growth in Pakistan, utilizing time series data from 1982 to 2025. Initially, the unit root test was conducted, indicating that all variables are I(1). Then Johanson's co-integration method was applied for estimation. The empirical results reveal that human capital is found to be positive and statistically significant at a 1% level. The coefficient on trade openness is also positive and statistically significant at 5% level. The error correction model (ECM) illustrates a negative and significant error correction term, indicating 25% convergence per period. The conclusion drawn from this study is that both trade openness and human capital play a pivotal role in the economic growth of the country. The interaction between trade openness and human capital helps in creating a research-intensive specialization culture and accelerates economic growth in Pakistan.
Effectiveness of the Jigsaw Cooperative Learning Model in Improving Academic Achievement of ESL Learners at the University Level
This study addresses a common challenge in English as a Second Language (ESL) classrooms at the university level in Pakistan, where students often demonstrate low academic motivation and unsatisfactory learning achievement. Such issues are frequently associated with traditional lecture-based instructional approaches that provide limited opportunities for learners to develop higher-order thinking, interaction, and argumentation skills. The present research aimed to examine the effectiveness of the Jigsaw cooperative learning model in improving the academic achievement of undergraduate ESL learners. The study employed a classroom action research design based on the cyclical framework proposed by Kemmis and McTaggart, consisting of two intervention cycles with two instructional sessions in each cycle. A total of 36 undergraduate students participated in the research, including both male and female learners enrolled in an English language course at a Pakistani university. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and achievement tests designed to measure students’ language learning outcomes during each cycle. The collected data were analyzed using both qualitative descriptive techniques and quantitative statistical comparisons. The findings revealed a noticeable improvement in students’ academic performance and engagement following the implementation of the Jigsaw cooperative learning strategy. Both individual and group learning outcomes showed progress across the intervention cycles, with the overall class mean score increasing and a higher percentage of students achieving the targeted performance criteria. The results indicate that structured cooperative learning activities encouraged active participation, peer interaction, and deeper comprehension of course content among ESL learners. The study concludes that the Jigsaw cooperative learning model is an effective pedagogical approach for enhancing academic achievement and learner engagement in Pakistani university-level ESL classrooms. The findings suggest that integrating cooperative learning strategies into English language instruction can promote meaningful learning experiences and improve educational outcomes in higher education contexts.
A Corpus-Assisted Critical Discourse Analysis of Gendered Representations of Violence, Agency, and Responsibility in Pakistani English Newspaper Crime Reporting
This paper analyses gender representation of violence, agency, responsibility, and victimhood in reporting crime in Pakistani English newspapers. The aim of the study is to define the common linguistic patterns that predetermine the way people understand the concept of gendered violence and argue about the ideologies underlying these conceptions. This study is based on the background of concerns that media crime discourse practices in patriarchal societies tend to normalize violence, blur the responsibility of perpetrators, and subject female victims to moral judgment. One of the research methods used in the study is corpus-assisted Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), which combines quantitative corpus analysis with qualitative discourse analysis. Theoretical framework is based on the three-dimensional model of CDA by Fairclough, social actor representation framework by van Leeuwen, and Systemic Functional Linguistics, especially, transitivity and voice. In the data collection process, a dedicated corpus of crime reports based on gender related violent crimes was prepared by searching the best Pakistani English newspapers with the help of purposive sampling technique. The results indicate that there are systematic gender asymmetries: women are mostly mythologized as passive victims by agentless and evaluative frames whereas men are put into the frames of legal and institutional practices that suppress responsibilities. Patriarchal ideologies are further promoted by victim-blaming discourses and institutional shielding. The research proposes more responsible reporting measures, such as overt assigning agency, less moral watchfulness of victims, and heightened examination of institutional reactions.
Legislative, Financial, And Administrative Shifts Under Pakistan’s 18th Constitutional Amendment
The 18th Constitutional Amendment, passed in 2010, stands as a landmark reform in Pakistan’s political history, aimed at decentralizing power and enhancing provincial autonomy. This amendment significantly altered the country’s constitutional framework by repealing the 17th Amendment, which had concentrated executive power in the hands of the President, and by enhancing the powers of the provinces, as enshrined in the 1973 Constitution. The primary objective of the 18th Amendment was to empower provinces, thereby promoting a more balanced federal structure. The study explores how the amendment has influenced the relationship between the federal government and the provinces, with a particular focus on the areas of legislative powers, financial resource distribution, and administrative control.
Botanical Insecticide Against Insect Pests of Tobacco Crop at District Swabi
Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) is an economically important cash crop in Pakistan; however, its productivity is severely constrained by insect pests, particularly aphids and budworms. Excessive reliance on synthetic insecticides has raised concerns regarding environmental safety, resistance development, and residue contamination, necessitating the evaluation of alternative pest management strategies. The present study was conducted during 2025 at Sikandari Dagi, District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, to assess the comparative efficacy of a synthetic insecticide (lambda-cyhalothrin) and selected botanical extracts against major insect pests of tobacco. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with seven treatments and an untreated control, replicated three times. Treatments included lambda-cyhalothrin, neem oil, chongan, chinaberry seed, bakain leaf, and moringa leaf extracts, all applied at 5% concentration. Pest populations were recorded before treatment and at 24, 48, and 7 days after application, while plant height and cured leaf yield were also evaluated. Results revealed that lambda-cyhalothrin provided the most effective and consistent suppression of budworm populations, followed by moringa and neem extracts. Although botanical treatments exhibited comparatively lower efficacy than the synthetic insecticide, all treatments significantly reduced pest populations relative to the untreated control. Lambda-cyhalothrin also resulted in the maximum plant height (105.74 cm) and highest cured leaf yield (2097.7 kg ha⁻¹), whereas botanical extracts produced moderate but statistically significant improvements in growth and yield over the control. The findings suggest that while synthetic insecticides remain highly effective for rapid pest suppression, certain botanical extracts, particularly moringa and neem, hold potential as environmentally safer components of integrated pest management programs for tobacco cultivation.
A Qualitative Investigation into Teachers’ Perceptions of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) in Pakistani ESL Classrooms
This qualitative research investigates how Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) functions in large tertiary-level ESL classrooms from the viewpoint of teachers. The study was carried out at a university in Pakistan, where overcrowded, examination-driven classes are a common reality. Information was gathered through semi-structured interviews with six English language instructors and examined using thematic analysis. The results indicate that most teachers regard CLT as an effective, student-focused approach that promotes learners’ speaking ability, fluency, and self-confidence by involving them in meaningful, real-world communication activities. Despite these advantages, participants also identified several practical difficulties in implementing CLT in large classes. These challenges include managing and supervising all students, providing personalized feedback, handling classroom noise and discipline, coping with limited time, and addressing unequal participation between high- and low-performing students. To overcome these issues, teachers reported modifying CLT practices by incorporating pair and group work, assigning specific roles to students, designing shorter and more structured activities, and selecting locally relevant topics. They also combine CLT with other teaching approaches, such as the Grammar-Translation Method, the Direct Method, Task-Based Learning, and Audio-Lingual techniques. The study emphasizes the importance of professional development, institutional backing, improved class management or reduced class sizes, and assessment systems that prioritize communicative competence. Overall, the findings suggest that while CLT can positively influence large ESL classrooms, its effectiveness depends on flexible, blended implementation that takes contextual limitations into account.
An Investigation of 10th Graders’ Misconceptions about Literal Symbols in Mathematics
The research has explored the conceptions that Grade 10 students have of the literal symbols in mathematics and the possible differences in these conceptions based on gender. Quantitative descriptive-comparative research design was adopted and a sample of 1,000 pupils of the public secondary schools was selected by proportional stratified random sampling. The Questionnaire on Literal Symbols (QLS) was used to collect the data evaluating the comprehension of the definition, properties, and use of literal symbols by the students. The results indicated that the students had an average knowledge in all areas and slightly higher levels of knowledge in properties than in definition and application. Gender analysis showed that there were slight differences with female students showing a slight advantage in the properties and application and male students showing a slight advantage in the understanding of definitions although they were not found to be statistically significant. These findings suggest the necessity of teaching methods that focus on the cognitive knowledge, practical examples that engage the context, and teaching methods that are based on the assessment of both reasoning and the procedural abilities. The application of special teaching methods and teacher improvement can increase the level of algebraic reasoning, problem-solving, and general mathematical ability in students.
Exploring the Effect of Teachers' Feedback Strategies on Students’ English Learning
In the teaching learning process, feedback plays a very important role in learners' academic life. Teachers use various strategies for imparting feedback to make their teaching effective and productive. Feedback in the present scenario is closely examined by researchers worldwide. The present study examined the effects of secondary school teachers' feedback strategies on English learning at the secondary level. This research was designed to investigate the effect of teachers' feedback strategies on English learning in Punjab (Pakistan) schools. The purpose of this research was to identify teachers' feedback strategies and their effects on students' English learning at the secondary school level in the Punjab province. The present study was descriptive in nature and conducted in a natural setting; therefore, it was a non-experimental qualitative study. A survey technique was used to collect data. The accessible population for the present study was the students of all secondary schools in the Punjab province of Pakistan who were admitted in the year 2024-25. The sample was selected conveniently by using a multi-stage sampling technique. Rubrics were developed after reviewing relevant literature. A focused group discussion of English teachers was arranged to identify teachers' feedback strategies used in schools. Thus, eight commonly used strategies were identified from the previously selected eight feedback strategies. Then, through a questionnaire mostly used strategies were identified and analyzed. The strategies, having, mean score greater than 3.00 were included in rubrics. The researcher collected data personally by using rubrics and took two observations of students’ English notebooks to explore the effect of feedback strategies. 240 research instruments were delivered and 236 responses were received. Response rate was almost 98%. Eleven research questions were formulated to find the facts which were calculated through T-Test. Independent sample t test, regression analysis and Pearson ‘r’ were used for final analysis through SPSS-21.
Analyzing the Public Perception of Nursing in Modern Society
The profession of nursing plays a crucial role in healthcare delivery worldwide, yet public perception of nursing remains limited, often overlooking the complexity and expertise involved in modern nursing practice. This study aims to examine the factors influencing public perception of nursing, exploring how media portrayals, educational advancements, and professional developments contribute to shaping public attitudes. Despite the growing role of nurses in advanced clinical, leadership, and decision-making roles, nursing continues to be perceived as a subordinate or less prestigious profession. This discrepancy between public perception and the reality of nursing practice can impact policy decisions, nursing education, and workforce sustainability, including issues such as nurse shortages and underrepresentation in leadership roles. By investigating these factors, this research seeks to identify strategies to shift public perceptions and improve the recognition and value of nursing in society. The findings aim to inform healthcare policy, nursing practice, and public education to promote a more accurate understanding of the nursing profession and its vital role in healthcare systems.
Measurements of Media Exposure, Women Empowerment and Descriptive Analysis
The deregulation of media in 2002, resulted in a proliferation of private cable and satellite TV outlets in Pakistan. We take media exposure as TV viewership, listening to radio, and exposure to print media i.e. newspaper and magazines. In this paper we analyze the descriptive statistics of media exposure; women empowerment and a crosstab of media exposure and women empowerment by using the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) data for the year 2017-2018. The data reveals that 35.7 percent of all ever married woman aged 15-19, are not exposed to any source of media. The data further reveals that only 1.9 percent of the women read newspaper or magazine and 2.5 percent the women listen to the radio. Furthermore, the data reveals that 40.5 percent women watch Television only. Moreover, only 2.8 percent of women are exposed to all the three sources of media, i.e. women who read the newspaper; listen to the radio and watch television. The data reveals that 50 percent of the women have very low empowerment, half of our respondents fall in this range, whereas almost 30 percent of the women are moderately empowered and make decisions jointly with their husbands and 7.1 percent of women have high empowerment and only 4 percent women are fully autonomous in their decision making. The cross-tabulation analysis between women empowerment and media exposure reveals a positive association between media exposure and women’s empowerment. Women with no media exposure are predominantly clustered in the lowest empowerment group, whereas those with moderate and higher exposure show a noticeable shift toward middle empowerment categories. However, despite this positive relationship, the proportion of women in the highest empowerment categories remains very small across all media exposure levels.
Exploring the Influence of Emotional Intelligence Qualities on the development of Students’ Leadership Skills
Emotional intelligence (EI) plays a significant role in developing effective leadership skills among students. This study explores the impact of emotional intelligence on students’ leadership abilities in educational settings. This research examines how emotionally intelligent students demonstrate better decision-making, conflict resolution, teamwork, and communication skills compared to those with lower levels of emotional intelligence. The main objective of studies is to examine how students describe the role of emotional intelligence in developing their leadership abilities and identify the emotional intelligence components that students believe are most important for effective leadership. refers to the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and regulate one’s own emotions while also being sensitive to the emotions of others. This research using a qualitative design to gain in-depth insights into students’ experiences and perceptions. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with secondary and higher secondary students. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and core themes related to emotional intelligence and leadership development. The findings of the study reveal that emotional Intelligence plays a significant role in strengthening students’ leadership capabilities. Students with higher emotional awareness demonstrated greater confidence in decision-making and were more effective in resolving conflicts. The study concludes that emotional Intelligence significantly influences the development of leadership skills among students. Therefore, it is recommended that schools integrate emotional intelligence training, reflective practices, and collaborative activities into their curricula to promote holistic leadership development and prepare students for future academic, professional, and social responsibilities.
Midnight Doorways: Decoding Pakistan’s Dark Fables of Horror and Violence through Speculative Fiction
This research explores the living bodies as abjections in the selected short stories. The characters are analyzed in this research through the works of Julia Kristeva, psychoanalytical term of abject that exhibits violence committed on. The underprivileged group in the chosen tales of Midnight Doorways: Fables; from Pakistan, the study is aimed at critically analyzing the impact of speculative, fiction focuses on the underserved communities and presents them as abject to provoke horror in the stories. The language and bright imagery involved by the author in these fables make a repulsive effect on the readers. The study will remark on the mentality of the majority group at the middle of the society and theirs. Ethics of living, or treatment of the peripheral ones. The focus of the study is to delve into the bodily experience of the characters in a biased community in. body mutilation, starvation, lack of hygiene and physical assault contributes to it, the process of abjection. The study is a critical and detailed one study.
Impact of Social Media Usage on Physical Health and Psychological Distress Among University Students
Social media has become an essential element of university students' everyday lives in recent years, significantly influencing their communication patterns, lifestyle choices, and psychological processes. The current study examines the growing prevalence of social media use among university students and its possible effects on psychological distress and physical health. It is based on the larger framework of digital health and psychosocial functioning. Keeping this in view, the present study was carried out to assess the impact of social media usage on physical health and psychological distress. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was utilized and data were gathered from 212 university students through standardized self-report instruments including; Social Media Usage Scale (SUMS), Physical Health Questionnaire (PHQ) and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) scales were used to assess the usage of social media, physical health and psychological distress respectively. The findings revealed significant positive relationships between social media usage, physical health and psychological distress suggesting that excessive usage of social media were linked with increased somatic symptoms and psychological distress among university students. Regression analyses further showed that social media usage was a significant predictor of both physical health and psychological distress. Significant gender differences were also observed on social media usage, physical health and psychological distress respectively which suggest that girls have greater inclination of social media usage, physical health and psychological distress as compared to the boys. In addition, significant family system differences were also observed on social media usage suggesting that participants from nuclear family system tended to have a greater tendency of social media usage as compared to those from joint family system. Therefore, the findings emphasize how important it is for universities to acknowledge social media use as a serious psychological and health issue. To reduce physical health complaints and psychological discomfort among university students, educational institutions and mental health specialists should work together to develop preventive initiatives, encourage responsible digital involvement, and incorporate psychosocial support services.
Perceived Social Inequality and Economic Pressure as Predictors of Deviant Behavior: The Mediating Role of Social Strain and the Moderating Role of Social Support
This is research on how perceived social inequality and economic pressures influence deviant behavior among fresh graduates in Hyderabad and Jamshoro in Pakistan in public and private universities. The study is based on the Strain Theory (Merton, 1938) and the mediation role of social strain and the moderation of social support. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data (219 respondents) which was analyzed with the help of PLS-SEM in SmartPLS 4. Findings have shown that perceived social inequality and economic pressure have a significant direct and indirect prediction of deviant behavior via social strain. It was also observed that social support moderated the effects of strain on deviant behavior which showed its protective value. The results give both theoretical and practical ideas to the education institutions and policymakers to prevent maladaptive behaviors through structural stressors reduction and an enhanced social support network. This work is added to the sociological insight on deviance within transitional socio-economic strains amongst graduates.
Decentralized Service Operations and Hybrid AI Oversight: A Human-in-the-Loop Decision Framework for Intelligent Service Systems
As artificial intelligence and platform-based work models increasingly shape service and industrial operations, organizations face a dual challenge: achieving operational efficiency through automation while preserving trust, quality, and human judgment. This study develops a human-in-the-loop decision framework for intelligent service systems by integrating insights from decentralized service operations and hybrid AI oversight models. Drawing on two complementary empirical domains - remote freelance co-hosting in short-term rental platforms and AI chatbot deployment in customer service - the paper demonstrates how over-centralized agency structures and fully automated decision systems often generate inefficiencies, trust deficits, and quality degradation at the operational level. Using qualitative synthesis of practitioner evidence, industry cases, sentiment analysis insights, and decision support system (DSS) literature, the study conceptualizes service operations as modular decision units distributed across digital platforms. The framework highlights how AI-driven analytics can support routine, data-intensive tasks, while human oversight remains essential for emotionally complex, ethically sensitive, and context-dependent decisions. By mapping service interactions across the operational lifecycle-task allocation, communication, escalation, recovery, and feedback-the paper illustrates how decentralized human agents and AI systems can be orchestrated within a structured decision-support architecture. The proposed framework extends traditional DSS research by shifting focus from manufacturing-centric lifecycle decisions to service-oriented, real-time operational governance, emphasizing social and human dimensions often neglected in automated systems. While hospitality-based examples are used as illustrative cases, the framework is designed to be transferable across industries including digital platforms, customer support services, fintech operations, and knowledge-based outsourcing. The study contributes to industrial and information systems research by offering a practical, scalable model for designing intelligent service systems that balance efficiency, accountability, and human-centered decision-making.
Cybersecurity Governance in the Digital Era and IT: Integrating Regulatory Oversight, Risk Management, and Organisational Resilience in Pakistan
The increased pace at which the Pakistani economy and infrastructure in the public sector is being digitalised presents a logical multiplicity of cybersecurity threats that require a strong, multi-layered governance structure. The current paper looks at the present situation on cybersecurity governance in Pakistan with an emphasis on the combination of regulatory oversight, enterprise risk management, and organisational resilience. Based on leading international standards like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 (NIST, 2024), the ISO / IE 27001:2022, the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR, 2016), and the NIS2 Directive (European Parliament, 2022) and placing them into the framework of the Pakistan socio-economic and institutional context, the paper will assess the efficacy of the current laws, including the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 20 The study also explores the organizational level management of the risks in public institutions and the private companies in Pakistan in this research, and the findings revealed the gaps in systems of awareness, technology capacity, incident management, and inter-agency coordination. The paper claims that to address the issue of sustainable cybersecurity governance in Pakistan, a paradigm shift is needed, shifting reactive and compliance-based strategies toward proactive and resilience-oriented strategies enshrined in national digital transformation agendas.
From Scarcity to Subjugation: How Famine, Misogyny, and the Erosion of Human Rights Converge
This paper addresses the nexus of famine, gender inequality and loss of human rights. It explores the development of scarcity into institutional social subjugation, which predisposes women and marginalized groups disproportionately. This study gives more weight to the socio-political, economic, and structural aspects of susceptibility as compared to the traditional analyses that regard famine more as the outcome of food shortages or environmental influences. Relying on quantitative measurements of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Food Programme (WFP), and Global Hunger Index (GHI), and qualitative indicators of case studies, and interviews with experts, the study examines the interaction between scarcity and patriarchal norms, discriminatory social organization, and legal deficiencies exacerbating deprivation. The results demonstrate that women experience more food insecurity, malnutrition, and gender-based violence than men and the differences are more pronounced in conflict zones, displaced communities, and climate-stressed areas. The barriers include the structures like lack of access to land, credit, and agricultural inputs, care giving responsibilities, and social expectations, which augment vulnerability. Intersectional analysis also demonstrates that women that are subjected to more than one of the marginalized identities including ethnic minority, disability or displacement are at a greater risk. The research also discovers existing gaps in the current legal frameworks such as international covenant on Economic, social and cultural rights (ICECSR) and convention against all forms of discrimination against women (CEDAW) establishments, which do not effectively respond to the indirect and structural human rights violations during famine. The study recommends comprehensive, sexually sensitive, and rights-based solutions to deal with short-term food insecurity as well as long-term structural disparities. Such policy recommendations are to tighten legal safeguards, empower women, enhance access to resources and deploy resilience measures. The study points out that there is need to have integrated, gender-sensitive and rights-based interventions to address the immediate food insecurity and simultaneously, the immediate food crisis. Some of the policy recommendations that can be put forward are effective enforcement of laws, empowering women, enhancing resource accessibility, and resilience. This research demonstrates that famine does not constitute a nutritional crisis but a multidimensional socio-political problem by providing evidence that scarcity is a form of social oppression and breach of human rights. It provides important insight for scholars, policymakers and humanitarian practitioners.
Exploring the Role of Digital Technologies in Promoting Sustainability and Reducing Environmental Impacts
This research is exploring how digital technologies can be used to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impacts across 300 digital industries. Particularly, it focuses on the effectiveness of the efficiency of artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of things (IoT) and big Data in mitigating or reducing environmental challenges. With growing concerns about environmental degradation, industries turn to the idea of optimizing the use of resources and reducing their impact on the environmental footprint. However, the use of quantitative information regarding the contribution of digital technologies to the sustainability goal. Data were collected A total of 300 industries were used to gather data using case studies and industry reports. The statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS to analyze the three important environmental measures that include energy use, waste management, and carbon emission. The analysis was done to evaluate the effects of digital technologies on sustainability results, reduction in energy consumption and a 20% decrease in waste production over five years. Also, Big Data analytics led to a 12% reduction in carbon emissions across various sectors. Digital technologies significantly contribute to sustainability, demonstrating measurable influence on resource efficiency and waste minimization. The results suggest that scaling these technologies can further reduce environmental footprints, offering valuable insights for businesses and policymakers aiming to integrate digital innovations for a sustainable future.
Psychosocial Factors and Academic Outcomes Among Undergraduate Students: Evidence from Luawms, Balochistan
University students increasingly face psychosocial challenges that may undermine their academic outcomes, particularly in low‑resource contexts where institutional support is limited. This study examines three psychosocial predictors of student performance at Lasbela University of Water, Agriculture and Marine Sciences (LUAWMS), Balochistan: anxiety, perceived social support, and life satisfaction. A cross‑sectional quantitative survey design was used with undergraduate students (N = 263). Standardized self‑report measures were employed, including the GAD‑7 for anxiety (Spitzer et al., 2006), alongside validated scales for perceived support and life satisfaction. Academic outcomes were operationalized using self‑reported CGPA (last semester) and two performance indicators (academic achievement and academic success). Bivariate correlations indicated that anxiety was negatively associated with CGPA (r = −0.589), whereas support and life satisfaction were positively associated with achievement and CGPA (support–CGPA r = 0.723; life satisfaction–CGPA r = 0.813). Regression analyses further showed that a one‑unit increase in anxiety predicted a 0.65 decrease in CGPA (β = −0.650, p < .001), while life satisfaction predicted higher CGPA (β = 0.846, p < .001) and academic success (β = 0.245, p < .001), and perceived support predicted higher academic achievement (β = 0.429, p < .001). Findings highlight the dual importance of reducing distress and strengthening positive psychosocial resources to improve academic outcomes. Policy and practice implications are discussed for student support services and preventative interventions in Pakistani higher education.
Climate Change and Its Impacts on Mental Health: A Systematic Review
Background: Climate change is increasingly recognized as a major global health threat, yet its mental health consequences remain insufficiently synthesized, particularly among vulnerable populations. While physical health impacts are well documented, growing evidence indicates that climate-related stressors exert profound psychological effects through both direct and indirect pathways. Objective: This systematic review aimed to critically examine the mental health impacts of climate change, identify the environmental and socioeconomic pathways linking climate stressors to psychological well-being, and highlight priority populations and areas for intervention. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and ScienceDirect for peer-reviewed studies published between 220 and 2025. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, studies were screened, appraised using Joanna Briggs Institute tools, and synthesized using a narrative thematic approach. Ten high-quality studies met the inclusion criteria. Results: The review found consistent evidence linking climate change to anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, post-traumatic stress symptoms, and emerging climate-specific conditions such as eco-anxiety, climate grief, and solastalgia. Women, pregnant mothers, children, and socioeconomically vulnerable populations were disproportionately affected. Mental health impacts occurred through both acute exposures to extreme weather events and chronic stressors such as displacement, livelihood insecurity, and environmental degradation. Conclusion: Climate change represents a substantial and growing threat to global mental health. Integrating mental health into climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and public health policy is essential to reduce future psychological burden and protect vulnerable populations.
An Analytical Study of the Structural and Intellectual Dimension of Sachal Sarmast's Sindhi Kafi
Sufi saints and spiritual reformers who advocated for love, tolerance, and togetherness have long resided in Sindh. As a pioneering Sufi poet, Sachal Sarmast is a notable figure among them. His Sindhi Kafis are an exquisite blend of artistic brilliance and mystical philosophy. This study highlights the literary inventiveness and spiritual depth of Sachal Sarmast's Sindhi Kafi poetry by critically examining its structural (artistic) and intellectual (philosophical) qualities. What are the main artistic elements and structural patterns of Sachal Sarmast’s Sindhi Kafis? In what ways does his poetical thinking embody the principle of Wahdat al-Wujud (Unity of Being)? What connection is there between Kafi’s mystical philosophy and creative structure? The main aim of this study is to examine Sachal Kafis's structural composition, poetry forms, rhythm, internal rhyme, and stylistic techniques. Additionally, it seeks to examine the philosophical underpinnings of his poetry, namely his mystical ideas of self-awareness, annihilation (Fana), permanence (Baqa), and the rejection of duality. The qualitative research methodology used in this study is based on textual and analytical techniques. Thematic analysis and close reading are used to analyze a few of Sachal Sarmast's Sindhi Kafis. The philosophical interpretation of Sufi ideas, particularly the theory of Unity of Being, is examined with the artistic features, poetic meters, and structural patterns. The investigation comes to the conclusion that the Sindhi Kafis by Sachal Sarmast represent a harmonious fusion of profound mystical knowledge and creative excellence. In terms of structure, he included ghazal-like features, internal rhymes, and a variety of Kafi forms and stanzaic patterns. His poetry highlights the spiritual journey from Fana to Baqa, the collapse of duality, and the discovery of divine unity from an intellectual standpoint. His audacious articulation of global humanism and “Ana al-Haq” demonstrates both intellectual clarity and spiritual bravery. Thus, by bringing Sindhi Kafi poetry to a higher level of artistic sophistication and intellectual profundity, Sachal Sarmast greatly enhanced it.
The Arab–Israel Conflict in the 21st Century: From Territorial Disputes to Regional Power Politics
This research examines the 21st-century transformation of the Arab–Israeli conflict, tracing its evolution from localized territorial disputes between Zionism and Palestinian nationalism to a multifaceted theater of regional power politics. Utilizing frameworks of structural realism, constructivism, and colonialist theory, the paper analyzes how traditional "land for peace" paradigms have eroded in favor of a new regional security construct driven by shared anti-Iranian threat perceptions. Key milestones explored include the failure of the Oslo Accords, the long-term strategic repercussions of the 2005 Gaza disengagement, and the rise of Iran’s "Axis of Resistance". Special emphasis is placed on the Abraham Accords as a catalyst for regional integration and the subsequent direct military escalations of 2023–2025, culminating in the "12-Day War" between Israel and Iran. The analysis further investigates the shifting roles of global powers—specifically the United States, Russia, and China—and Israel’s strategic pivot toward Somaliland. The paper concludes that while military superiority has temporarily shifted the balance of power, the "one-state reality" and unresolved Palestinian grievances continue to pose a significant threat to long-term regional stability.
The Impact of Teacher Shortages on the Quality of Secondary Education in Rural Areas of Balochistan: A Study on Educational Outcomes and Student Performance
This paper evaluates the effects of teacher shortages on the quality of secondary education offered in the rural areas of Balochistan, Pakistan, with an emphasis on the effects on the academic performance of students. Education is an important platform for promoting individual health and socio-economic development; nevertheless, the shortage of qualified educators has remained an impediment to quality education, particularly in isolated areas. In this study, a quantitative methodological approach was utilized in collecting data from a representative sample of 300 students, 250 educators, 40 headmasters, and 200 secondary level educators, who participated from public secondary high schools in the rural area of Balochistan. A questionnaire was used as a data-gathering technique for collecting information from students, educators, and headmasters about the presence of educators, issues regarding educator induction and retention, and effectiveness and efficiency of education policies. The results show that a shortage of educators negatively affects the education of students, particularly shown by a reduction in grade point averages and a disruption within the instructional process. Recruitment and retention were identified as major challenges, primarily due to geographic remoteness, inadequate infrastructure, and limited professional support. Although the existing policies and incentives seemed moderately effective, it was made clear through responses that there was a dire need for greater policy relevance. Professional development programs were also found less capable of influencing teaching staff motivation. Regression analysis further tended to support the ill effects of absenteeism on the educational standard. Results showed a significant negative correlation between absenteeism of teaching staff and secondary educational standards (B = 0.481, β = 0.490, t = 3.462, p = 0.001), revealing that increased levels of absenteeism result in a significant drop in educational standards. In summary, it is revealed that there existed a profound need for more informed resource allocation, greater policy relevance, along with more capable support systems to counteract the effects of teaching staff shortages, eventually improving educational standards in the secondary levels of Balochistan.
Analyzing Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events: From a Cold Night in Swat to a Warming World
Swat Valley used to be famous for its moderate climate and natural beauty; however, it is currently witnessing the strange extreme weather patterns that do not match the historical statistics. This article discusses the impact of climate change on the life of the Swat Valley and specifically discusses the disastrous floods of 2010 and 2022, frequent forest fires, and the recent cloudburst. Using the personal observations, field trips, and community attitudes, this study indicates the increasing susceptibility of the local community to such severe weather conditions and the inefficiency of the response to the disasters. The analysis juxtaposes the Valley scenario with the trends in climate conditions all over the world and discovers that local disasters are not accidents but a reflection of the worldwide climate crisis. It suggests a concerted response at three interdependent tiers, which include international collaboration to reduce carbon emissions, government policy focusing on adaptation and climate resilience, and individual response by practicing sustainability and activism at the grassroots level. The results highlight the importance of the fact that although climate change is a universal issue, the local grounded solutions, involvement of communities, and the awareness of the population are also essential in terms of tackling the severe problem.
Pakistan Awami Tehreek and Its Role in Pakistani Politics
Dr. Tahirul Qadri, a well-known Islamic scholar, created the Pakistan Awami Tehrik (PAT) in 1989.The Bravelvi school of thought, which is the predominant sect in Pakistan, is deeply ingrained in the party's membership. The party's founder and chairman publicly identifies as a devout Bravelvi.The Bravelvi school of thought was represented by the pre-existing religious political parties, which greatly despised the creation of PAT.It was said that Dr. Qadri intended to split the Bravelvies and that the new party would make them less powerful politically. For various reasons, PAT was also rejected by the other religious political parties.The PAT gained notoriety in 2012 when its employees convened for a dharna in Islamabad. Pat’s motto was Siaysat nahe Riasat Bachao, which means "save the country and not the politics."A new political structure was required by the party.The PPP government was worried by the PAT's use of the capital system.Once more, the party organized its workers nationwide and staged a large sit-in in Islamabad. The Nawaz Shareef government was shaken by the several-day-long dharna. Pakistan Awami Tehreek stands out in Pakistani and comparative politics as a reform-oriented, religiously driven movement that has faced structural electoral challenges but has significantly influenced public discourse through grassroots organizing and normative critiques of the political system. Examining PAT provides valuable insights about the relationship between democratic agency, protest, and religion in a dynamic and divisive political landscape.In Pakistan's political academia, the influence of non-mainstream political actors on political discourse has not gotten much empirical attention. Despite having a small electoral representation, the Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) has managed to stay visible through religious identity, protest politics, and leadership-driven mobilization. There is a void in the systematic, theory-driven investigation of these movements' political influence because the majority of existing research look at them descriptively. In order to close this gap, the current study explores the role of Pakistan Awami Tehreek in Pakistani politics by looking at how street mobilization, protest politics, charismatic leadership, and religious ideology based on Barelvi identity affect the organization's total political influence. The empirical findings show that the political influence of PAT is positively and statistically significantly correlated with all three independent variables (p < 0.05). The strongest predictors were found to be charismatic authority and leadership, followed by street mobilization and protest politics. Religious ideology also had a significant impact. These results demonstrate that non-electoral procedures, not parliamentary participation, are the main drivers of PAT's political relevance. By providing an empirical, variable-based explanation of non-electoral political impact in a hybrid democratic setting, this work adds to the body of literature. By identifying other avenues for political engagement, promoting evidence-based decision-making, and expanding knowledge of religiously informed political movements in Pakistan, the findings have significant ramifications for academics, decision-makers, and civil society.
Determinants of Patient Satisfaction in Tertiary Healthcare: The Mediating Role of Patient - Perceived Empowerment
The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of technical quality, service quality, doctor-patient communication, and patient-perceived empowerment on patient satisfaction. Moreover, the mediating effect of patient-perceived empowerment between technical quality, service quality, doctor-patient communication, and patient satisfaction is also explored. The research was conducted using a quantitative approach and a structured questionnaire was designed to collect data from inpatients and outpatients of tertiary care hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. The data was collected using a five-point Likert scale. A total of 380 valid responses were collected, which were then analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) in SmartPLS 4 software. The findings of the study indicate that service quality, communication, and patient-perceived empowerment have a significant positive impact on patient satisfaction, while technical quality does not have a significant positive impact on patient satisfaction. Moreover, the findings also indicate that patient-perceived empowerment has a significant positive mediating effect on the relationship between communication and patient satisfaction. However, the mediating effect of patient-perceived empowerment on the relationship between technical quality and patient satisfaction, and service quality and patient satisfaction is not supported. The study is confined to the tertiary care hospitals of Karachi. This might affect the generalizability of the results to other areas or settings. The study is based on data collected from patients only, and the cross-sectional nature of the study restricts the establishment of causality. The results of the study emphasize the need to improve doctor-patient interactions, healthcare service accessibility, and patient empowerment to improve patient satisfaction. Healthcare professionals and policymakers should focus on patient satisfaction-oriented healthcare practices, patient empowerment in decision-making, and remove the hurdles to healthcare accessibility, especially in developing countries. The study makes an original contribution to the healthcare literature by incorporating technical quality, service quality, doctor-patient communication, and patient-perceived empowerment into a unified framework. The study provides new empirical insights into the mediating effect of patient-perceived empowerment, especially in the context of a developing country, and hence provides valuable theoretical and practical contributions.
Linguistic Salience and Ideological Framing of Environmental Issues in Pakistan Studies Textbooks: An Eco-Linguistic Analysis
The study examines political dominance and ecological erasure in the Punjab Textbook Board's Pakistan Studies syllabus (Code 2059) for grades 9 and 10 from an Eco-linguistic perspective. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, which includes both quantitative content analysis and qualitative interpretation. This interpretation is based on Stibbe’s (2015) Eco-linguistic framework, particularly his concepts of ideological framing and erasure, which fall under the concept of Stories We live By”. For this purpose, a corpus of 416 pages from seven textbook sources was analyzed to understand the trends of representation and omission. The results show that political and historical narratives are overwhelmingly dominant in the curriculum, found in 71% of paragraphs and 68% of sentences (about 900 paragraphs and 3,470 sentences). In contrast, environmental topics are significantly neglected. For example, glaciers are mentioned on only 2.6% of paragraphs (39 times), the blind Indus dolphin is completely absent, while the Markhor is mentioned in only 0.5 of sentences (25 times). The ratio of historical to environmental references is about 36:1, indicating a severe imbalance in representation. According to Stibbe, this imbalance indicates a theoretical framing in which Pakistan is presented primarily as a political and historical state, while the absence or under representation of natural and environmental elements is a form of erasure, that is, important aspects of the natural world are made invisible in discourse. This erasure results in a reduction in the salience of environmental issues and limits the formation of an ecological identity among students. Considering the environmental issues facing Pakistan, such as melting glaciers and pollution of the Indus River, this research recommends that 10 to 15% of the curriculum content be allocated to environmental topics to promote Eco-literacy and establish a more balanced narrative in the curriculum.
From Fun to Intrapreneurship: The Chain Mediating Roles of Organizational Trust and Work Engagement
The development of employee intrapreneurial behaviour in organizations has become pivotal in the drive to remain innovative and competitive in the present day. Based on the Social Exchange Theory and Job DemandsResources model, this paper will ascertain the impact of fun at the workplace on employee intrapreneurial behaviour mediated by organizational trust and work engagement. The sample size that was used to obtain the data was 600 full time workers in manufacturing organization in Pakistan who were sampled via a mixed mode survey approach. The hypotheses put forward were tested using structural equation modeling and bootstrapping analysis. According to the findings, fun in workplace directly influences intrapreneurial behaviour of employees. Also, this relationship is mediated by organizational trust and work engagement separately. Notably, the results present support of a sequential chain mediation, i.e. the workplace fun increases organizational trust, which, in turn, elevates work engagement, ultimately resulting in intrapreneurial behaviour. The paper adds to previous literature on intrapreneurship by combining affective, relational and motivational processes and identifying fun at the workplace as a strategic organizational tool to trigger internal entrepreneurship.
Analysis of the Types of Cupping in Hijama Therapy
Hijama, or cupping therapy, is a traditional healing practice that has persisted across civilizations and continues to be widely utilized in contemporary complementary and alternative medicine. Historically, cupping has been documented in ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Greek medical texts, where it was employed to treat a variety of ailments ranging from musculoskeletal pain to systemic disorders (Aqeel et al., 2025). Within Islamic medicine, Hijama occupies a distinctive position due to its endorsement in prophetic traditions (ahadith), which elevated it from a therapeutic intervention to a spiritually significant practice (Kawoosa, 2023). In modern times, Hijama has gained renewed attention as part of integrative medicine, with researchers exploring its physiological mechanisms and clinical efficacy. Different types of cupping—wet cupping, dry cupping, massage/moving cupping, and fire cupping—are practiced globally, each with unique therapeutic rationales. Wet cupping, involving controlled bloodletting, is often associated with detoxification and relief of chronic conditions, while dry cupping emphasizes circulatory stimulation and muscular relaxation (Hassan et al., 2023). Massage cupping integrates suction with movement to enhance lymphatic drainage, and fire cupping, rooted in traditional methods, utilizes rapid suction for respiratory and circulatory benefits. Despite its widespread use, Hijama remains under-researched in terms of standardized protocols and biomedical validation. Current literature highlights promising outcomes in pain management, hypertension, and rehabilitation, yet methodological inconsistencies limit definitive conclusions. This research aims to analyze the types of cupping in Hijama therapy, situating them within historical, religious, and biomedical contexts, while emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific inquiry to bridge traditional practice with modern healthcare frameworks.
Mathematics Learning Difficulties: Inclusive Solutions through Diagnostic Assessment, Assistive Technology, and Universal Design
This study finds that clinical evaluation, additional technology, and universal design for learning (UDL) collaborate to assist students in learning mathematics effectively within inclusive classrooms. Using a valid and reliable questionnaire, the data was collected from 350 randomly selected teachers using a quantitative and descriptive research design. Conclusions reveal strong consensus about early identity, increased access, and better engagement through these inclusive strategies among teachers. Analysis of data has shown that teachers mostly agreed to use the effectiveness of using the diagnostic equipment (average score of 4.49), auxiliary technologies (average score of 4.31), and UDL practices (average score of 4.26) based on factors such as job title, location, qualification, and experience. These results confirm that the combined use of clinical evaluation, auxiliary technology, and UDL supports academic achievement for students with mathematical learning difficulties. The study underlines the importance of targeted professional training, equitable resource allocation, and inclusive course development to increase the instruction of mathematics in diverse educational contexts.
Leveraging Sustainable Content and Social Media Marketing for Innovative Consumer Engagement: Examining the Mediating Role of Online Convenience in Shaping Consumer Buying Behavior
In the era of modern technology, the behavior of the consumer behavior shifted to fast innovative trends and fashion and also changed the business methods and strategies as compare to traditional approach of the marketing and the digital marketing. Thus, purchasing and selling concept used the approach of brick-and-mortar. The current research study was investigating the factors of digital marketing such as content marketing and the social media marketing with associated the consumer buying decision and the mediating effects of online convenience. The data was collected from the respondents using physically self-administrative questionnaire and also using the approach of Google form to distribute the link of the questionnaire with method of convenience sampling technique. The sample size for the current research based on the 386 collect from the respondents to analysis the research study data. The results indicates that the content marketing has the significance importance on the online convenience and the social media marketing also has the positive impact on the online convenance. Furthermore, the results suggested that the online convenience also significantly and the positively associated with the consumer purchase intention. Based on the results suggested that the mediating effects, the online convenience mediates the effects between the content marketing and the consumer purchase intention, and the also the online convenience mediates the relationship between the social media marketing and the decisions of the consumer behaviors.
Bioterrorism and Global Politics: Strengthening International Law for Emerging Biological Threats
Bioterrorism has re-emerged as a critical global security challenge amid rapid advances in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and synthetic biology, compounded by geopolitical fragmentation and lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper examines the historical evolution of biological warfare, tracing its progression from ancient and medieval practices to highly industrialized state-sponsored programs of the twentieth century. It further analyzes how contemporary dual-use technologies, particularly CRISPR-Cas systems and AI-enabled biological design, have lowered barriers to misuse by both state and non-state actors. The study critically evaluates existing international legal instruments, with particular emphasis on the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), highlighting persistent deficiencies such as the absence of verification mechanisms, limited institutional capacity, and uneven implementation. Recent legal and policy developments, including amendments to the International Health Regulations, regional initiatives by African States Parties, and proposals for an International Agency for Biological Safety, are assessed for their potential to modernize global biosecurity governance. The paper argues that effective prevention of emerging biological threats requires an integrated, data-driven, and multilateral approach that balances security, scientific innovation, and equitable access to biotechnology. Strengthening international law through institutional reform, responsible innovation, and enhanced cooperation is essential to address the evolving nature of bioterrorism in the twenty-first century.
Moderating effect of Personality Factors on the relationship between Role Models and Entrepreneurial Intentions
The study examines the association between role models and entrepreneurial intentions with the moderating effect of personality factors among the chosen university students from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. 385 students were given the self-administered questionnaire by proportionate stratified random sampling and the (SPSS) was used to evaluate the results. The results of the current study indicate that role models and entrepreneurial intentions are positively correlated. Furthermore, the association between university students' entrepreneurial intentions and role models is moderated by personality factors. The research findings are helpful for university students in Pakistan. The study has as long as limitations and recommendations for the future studies.
From James Gatz to Jay Gatsby: Proto-Posthuman Identity and Capitalist Self-Engineering in The Great Gatsby
This study explores the transformation of James Gatz into Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby (1925) as an early example of constructed identity. Rather than treating Gatsby’s reinvention only as a pursuit of the American Dream, the article argues that his self-creation reflects a form of capitalist self-engineering. Drawing on Donna Haraway’s concept of the cyborg, Gatsby is interpreted as an “analog cyborg,” a figure shaped not by digital technology but by disciplined habits, consumption, and social performance. By reshaping his behavior, speech, appearance, and invented background, he approaches identity as something that can be designed and improved rather than something naturally given. The interpretation is further supported by cultural theories of discipline, performance, and consumption, which explain how modern society forms identity through routine conduct, public display, and social recognition. Using qualitative close textual analysis informed by a New Historicist perspective, the study examines Gatsby’s “General Resolves,” regulated routines, and carefully staged public image. These practices reveal a pattern of efficiency and self-regulation similar to modern ideas of self-optimization. Wealth, material objects, and spectacle function as social mechanisms that temporarily allow Gatsby to appear to cross class boundaries and gain legitimacy. His persona therefore emerges as a hybrid formation produced through the interaction of personal effort and the economic and cultural structures of modern society. The article argues that Fitzgerald’s novel anticipates later concerns about unstable identity and constructed subjectivity. Gatsby’s downfall demonstrates the limits of self-creation. Although identity can be performed and reshaped, it cannot fully erase social history or inherited hierarchy. The novel therefore offers a pre-digital exploration of technologically organized subjectivity and suggests that the desire to improve and redesign the self originates within capitalist modernity rather than contemporary biotechnology.
Dualism and Patriarchal Reflections in Gauhar’s An Abundance of Wild Roses
This study investigates Gauhars An Abundance of Wild Roses through the perspective of ecofeminism. This study explores the way in which the text connects patriarchal dominance and the exploitation of natural environment. The text focuses a community in which both women and nature exist under a dominated patriarchal system that exploited both. Instead of discussing these forms of oppression separately the text compares both together. It shows how they arise from the same cultural and social beliefs. The story of text frequently throws attention to the way where women are defined through their bodies and femineity roles which defaced the exploitation of environment with women. This type of relation between women and environment shows a central concern of ecofeminism through the historical subservience of women. It frequently linked to the misuse of natural resources. Exploited characters like Kulsoom, Sabiha, and Fatimah experience harsh forms of restriction and punishment. Their sufferings are similar to slow the grief which caused by environmental harm. The exploited environment like women is expected to face without resistance. Moosa Madad represents the patriarchal dominance that assist this system. His patriarchal control over women and dominated attitude toward the land reveal a mindset which shows ownership rather than responsibility. Through his patriarchal thinking in the text exposes how patriarchal power operates at both social and ecological levels. By leading these dominated elements together, the text strongly supports the ecofeminist perspective. It proves that the gender inequality and environmental destruction are closely connected. Therefore this study analysis the Gauhars An Abundance of Wild Roses as a critical thinking of patriarchal agrarian order in which exploitation of nature and domination of women are treated and justified.
Greenwashing or Genuine Value “The Impact of Sustainable Marketing Claims on Brand Loyalty and Consumer Skepticism”
Current trend of sustainable marketing has prompted organizations to include sustainable marketing assertions in branding and communication techniques. These assertions are expected to boost brand image, develop consumer trust, and create long term relationships. Nevertheless, the growing popularity of greenwashing has prompted questioning the authenticity of such statements, and the consumer distrust has increased. This paper will discuss how the claims made by sustainable marketing influence brand loyalty and consumer skepticism, and how perceived authenticity can be used to influence the attitude and behavioral intentions of consumers. Quantitative research design was taken and 300 consumers were conducted through a structured questionnaire. The relationship between the variables was analyzed using statistical methods, such as descriptive analysis, correlation, and regression analysis. The result shows that brand loyalty is profoundly affected by sustainable marketing assertions in a positive manner meaning that customers are apt to become loyal to brands that declare authentic sustainability activities. The findings also indicate that sustainable marketing claims and consumer skepticism have a significant negative correlation, implying that plausible sustainability communication does not eliminate doubts in consumers and is also positively associated with trust. Moreover, brand loyalty was identified to be negatively influenced by consumer skepticism, a fact showing the need to be transparent and authentic in marketing communication. The paper concludes that with a real environmental commitment, sustainable marketing claims have the potential to generate real value to the organization by enhancing consumer trust and loyalty. The findings are important to the marketers and organizations who are interested in creating sound sustainability strategies that boost brand credibility and prolonged consumer ties.
Beyond the Lexicon: Semantic Approaches to Coherence and Meaning-Making in AI-Generated Texts
This research analyzes the significance of coherent and meaningful AI-generated content in semiotics. Although transformer LLMs provide extremely eloquent results, or even they often times unable to maintain the coherency of discussion, elude false or misleading information, or conserve assertion. The approach introduces a multi-methodological analysis and produce AI-created content by illustrating on analytical approaches, operational models of local coherence(entity-grid) ,contemporary semantic scorers (BERT Score, NLI detectors),and (Rhetorical Structure Theory; attention/intentional accounts).It blueprints a realistic decorum that connects the various checks like entity, persistency, hallucination detectors, human connotation ,discourse relation analysis, and entailment checks to identify where semiotic failures happen and design model advancements. This research asserts that to get AI-generated text and powerful, we need to assimilate semiotic limitations to how we train, decode, and evaluate models–surpassing the vocabulary to knowledge about discourse, contextually rooted in AI writing systems.
Constitutional Promise to Governance Practice: Implementation Gaps in Council of Common Interests Decisions after the 18th Amendment in Pakistan
This study examines the implementation gaps and governance challenges associated with the Council of Common Interests (CCI) in Pakistan following the 18th Constitutional Amendment (2010). The amendment aimed to institutionalize cooperative federalism by devolving authority to provinces and strengthening intergovernmental coordination mechanisms. Despite constitutional reforms, persistent delays in convening meetings, weak enforcement mechanisms, political contestation, and fiscal disputes under National Finance Commission (NFC) arrangements have constrained execution of CCI decisions. Drawing upon primary sources, including the Constitution of Pakistan, CCI annual reports (2011–2024), parliamentary debates, Cabinet Division reports, and provincial development data, the study provides a province-wise analysis of implementation challenges across Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan. Special attention is given to post-conflict rehabilitation demands in KP, inter-provincial resource disputes, urban infrastructure challenges in Sindh, and fiscal allocation issues under the NFC Award. The findings indicate that institutional reforms alone have not ensured compliance, as political bargaining, fiscal asymmetries, and capacity deficits continue to shape implementation outcomes. The study concludes that enforcing constitutional timelines, aligning fiscal arrangements with devolved responsibilities, improving administrative capacity, and institutionalizing monitoring mechanisms are essential for realizing the promise of cooperative federal governance in Pakistan.
Measuring Soft Power Impact of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Under Muhammad Bin Salman
This study examines the changing face of Saudi Arabia’s soft power under the reign of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with a focus on the period post-Vision 2030 launch. The transformation of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030 is anchored on the strategic approach of diversifying the national economy and reshaping the Saudi identity through strategic investments in unconventional industries such as media, entertainment and sports. Such efforts are not merely domestic reforms, but rather they have double purposes – domestic reform and promotion of the Kingdom’s visibility and capacity to influence others through soft power measures. The underlying perspective of the research is based on the theory of soft power, especially in emphasizing the aspect of culture and values in attracting nations or individuals. Research explores how such initiatives as the organization of major events, development of domestic media enterprises, and international sporting participation are shaping new perceptions about Saudi Arabia’s openness, creativity, and cultural significance. Using a combination of discourse analysis, soft power index data, and public opinion trends, the study assesses the effectiveness and limitations of these initiatives in reshaping public perception. The findings indicate that while Vision 2030 has provided a coherent framework for deploying soft power through cultural platforms, the overall impact remains mixed. Positive shifts in visibility and engagement are often offset by persistent concerns surrounding political freedoms and human rights. This thesis offers a critical perspective on how an authoritarian state utilizes internal reform and cultural spectacle as tools for image-building, contributing to broader discussions on the role of soft power in contemporary statecraft.
Constructing the Integrated Social Capital Index (ISCI): A Comprehensive Measure of Relational and Systemic Dimensions of Social Capital
Esser (2007) has laid a comprehensive theoretical foundation for social capital but did not empirically measure it. This study aims to measure the Integrated social capital index and sub-indices of its sub-dimensions at the cross-national level. The study has collected data from several secondary sources for 53 variables, covering all dimensions of social capital. Social capital is divided into two sub-dimensions, relational capital and system capital. Relational capital is subdivided into three dimensions, i.e., positional capital, trust capital, and obligational capital. Similarly, system capital is also divided into three sub-dimensions, i.e., system control, system trust, and system morality. The study has used PCA and an equal-weighted average method to develop the index. The data have been collected for a set of countries, including developed and underdeveloped countries. The study has shown that countries with higher social capital are ranked higher in the relational capital index and the system capital index.
The Role of Emotions in Political Decision-Making Process
This study examines the role of emotions in shaping political decision-making through a comparative analysis of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Imran Khan, two influential leaders in Pakistan’s political history. Drawing on theories from political psychology, affective intelligence, and emotional appraisal, the research analyzes how emotions influence leadership judgment, political communication, and mass mobilization. Employing a qualitative and comparative research design, the study relies on secondary data including political speeches, biographies, academic literature, and media sources. The findings demonstrate that both leaders strategically employed emotional narratives to legitimize authority, shape public attitudes, and influence political behavior.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Economic Empowerment: An Analytical Study of Self-Employed Women Entrepreneurs in Karachi
The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business processes presents new opportunities for self-employed peoples, yet its adoption among self-employed women in developing urban contexts remains under-explored. This study investigates the role of AI tools in enhancing business performance and promoting economic empowerment among self-employed women in Karachi. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative surveys of 100 self-employed women with in-depth qualitative interviews to examine patterns of AI adoption, perceived benefits, and barriers to implementation. The study also explores how AI contributes to decision-making, market access, and income generation, alongside sociocultural and infrastructural factors influencing technology utilization. Findings aim to provide empirical evidence on the intersection of digital innovation and women’s economic agency, informing social work practice, policy formulation, and targeted support programs. Ultimately, the research seeks to highlight strategies for leveraging AI to foster inclusive entrepreneurship and sustainable economic empowerment in urban Pakistan.
Meritorious Prof. (Retd) Dr. Nasreen Aslam Shah
High-Performance Talent Management Practices and Organizational Agility: The Mediating Role of Human Capital Development with Learning Orientation as a Moderator
This study examined the relationship between high-performance talent management practices and organizational agility, with human capital development serving as a mediator and learning orientation acting as a moderator. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from 312 employees across multiple organizations. Structural equation modeling was used to test the proposed hypotheses. The results indicated that high-performance talent management practices had a significant positive effect on organizational agility (β = 0.45, p < 0.001). Human capital development also significantly influenced agility (β = 0.38, p < 0.001) and partially mediated the relationship between talent management and agility (indirect effect = 0.19, p < 0.01). Furthermore, learning orientation significantly moderated the relationship between talent management practices and human capital development (β = 0.21, p < 0.01), strengthening the positive association under high learning conditions. The model explained 62% of the variance in organizational agility (R² = 0.62), indicating substantial explanatory power. The findings suggested that organizations seeking to enhance agility should prioritize integrated talent management systems supported by continuous human capital development and strong learning cultures. The study contributed to strategic human resource management literature by providing an integrated moderated mediation framework linking HR practices to dynamic organizational capabilities.
The Dark Side of Leadership: Exploring the Impact of Despotic Leadership on Employees’ Intrapreneurial Behavior through Happiness and Self-Efficacy
This paper examines the negative impacts of despotic leadership on intrapreneurial behavior of employees with a special focus on the underlying affective and cognitive processes. Based on the social cognitive theory and the broaden-and-build theory, we discuss the role of happiness in the workplace and self-efficacy in mediating the connection between authoritarian leadership and intrapreneurial engagement. Both online and face-to-face surveys were used to collect the data on 700 fulltime employees in manufacturing organizations in Pakistan. The structural equation modelling indicated that despotic leadership has a significant negative impact on intrapreneurial behaviors, both directly and indirectly, through decreased happiness and self-efficacy. Also, a chain mediation effect showed that affective well-being enhances cognitive confidence, which, together with intrapreneurial outcomes, is strengthened. The findings contribute to the body of current literature emphasizing the psychosocial mechanisms by which the destructive leadership inhibits the innovation and agency of employees. Theoretical and practical implications consist of the necessity to reduce the authoritarian attitude and promote supportive work conditions to provide the employees with sufficient psychological resources and entrepreneurial potential.
Impact of Teaching Tools on Teachers' Classroom Performance in Tehsil Mandibahudin
Teaching tools were designed to improve their professional performance of teachers. Teaching tools were used to improve the learning environment, student engagement in learning activities, instructional medium quality, and curriculum implementation. The goal of using a teaching tool was to tell a clear depiction about the level of A.V aids use in a school. The present research was conducted in the Tehsil Mandi Bahuddin. According to the division of schools this Tehsil was divided into ten female Markaz. From the total Markas, 4 Markaz were selected conveniently. In Markaz Sohawa Bolani total 10 elementary and primary schools, in Markaz circle no.1 female total 10 schools, in Markaz circle No.2 female total 11 schools and in Markaz Rasul female total 10 schools were existed. In the 10 schools of Markaz Sohawa Bolani, total 39 teachers, in the 10 schools of circle no.1 female total 58 teachers, in the circle no.2 total 47 teachers and in Rasul female total 33 teachers were working as PST. So total 177 teachers of these four Markaz were the population of present study. After the drawing of sketch of population then the sample size of 121 elementary and primary school teachers was obtained by using online available software i.e., www.surveysystem.com by the confidence interval 5% and confidence level 95%. From Markaz Sohawa Bolani female (27) teachers, circle no. 1 (40), circle no.2 (32) and Markaz Rasul female (22) teachers was selected as sample size. A traditional survey of descriptive research was conducted. By using convenient sampling technique schools were selected and after the selection of schools then the respondents were selected through simple random technique. So in this research the multi stag sampling technique was choose. For the data collection questionnaire was used from the selected respondents. After the collection of required quantitative data then it was analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Results shows that half (50 %) of the respondents had up to 28-32 years. Half (50%) of the respondent’s income was between 10,0000-20,0000. White boards (mean value=4.31), mobile technology (mean value=4.20) are the top audio visual aids which are used as teaching tools. Similarly, flash cards (mean value=3.52), pictures (mean value=3.31) were used by teacher as print material. Likewise, increase the skills of using technology (mean value=4.21), develops the skills of getting command on e-tools (mean value=4.13), promotes the professional teaching skill at 3rd rank ( mean value=4.02) were the highest teachers skills that bring improvement of teaching skills with teaching tools. However, train through technological gadgets (mean value =4.07), promotes collaboration between educational stakeholders (mean value=4.00), were the major impact of teaching tools on the teaching performance. While, schools are not well equipped to teach with teaching tools (mean value =4.30), lack of financial resources in school (mean value=4.24), classroom management is poor for teaching with tools (mean value=4.23) were the main teachers’ personal factors that provide the reasons that effects the active teaching tools. It was concluded that Mandi Bahauddin was not developed area due to this latest teaching tools were not used in this area. It was suggested that government should implement the policies, train the teachers, check the performance of teacher in classroom and allocate the budget (specify the name AV aids budget) that’s only used for A.V aids.
Death Anxiety and Religiosity as Predictors of Psychological Problems in Elderly Patients with Chronic Illnesses
Objectives: The main objectives of the current study were to determine how religiosity and death anxiety affect the psychological health of older individuals with chronic illnesses. Furthermore, to explore differences in death anxiety and religiosity concerning the demographic variable (gender). Method: The cross-sectional research design was applied. The sample consisted of 200 participants, age range of 60-90 years (Mage=67.34; SD=7.35) suffering from various chronic illnesses, including hypertension, arthritis, asthma, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and hepatitis. Results: Multiple regression analyses showed that death anxiety was a significant predictor of psychological problems, while the religious practice negatively predicted psychological problems (depression and stress) whereas religious beliefs negatively predicted psychological problems (anxiety and stress) respectively. The findings revealed significant gender differences in psychological problems. Conclusion: Death anxiety and religiosity significantly predicted psychological problems. Gender differences were also found in the psychological problems among elderly patients.
CPEC at the Crossroads (2015–2025): Origins, Evolutionary Trajectory, and Multifaceted Regional Implications
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), inaugurated as a cornerstone of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2015, has undergone significant evolution by 2025, transitioning into its second phase with enhanced focus on industrial cooperation, technological transfers, and regional extensions. This article delves into the origins, developmental trajectory, and multifaceted motivations of CPEC for both Pakistan and China, while critically examining its profound implications for Sino-Indian rivalry amid recent rapprochements and persistent tensions. Incorporating updated data through 2025, including the economic impacts such as job creation and infrastructure advancements, and challenges like security threats and debt sustainability, the analysis highlights CPEC's role as both an economic lifeline for Pakistan and a strategic lever for China. Furthermore, it explores how CPEC influences regional connectivity, potentially extending to Afghanistan, and shapes the broader geopolitical landscape in South Asia, underscoring the need for balanced policies to mitigate rivalry escalation.
Resilience and Psychological Distress among Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Moderating role of Perceived Social Support
The paper investigated the moderating role of perceived social support in the relationship between resilience and psychological distress using 100 parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Purposive sample of participants was chosen from Rawalpindi and Islamabad (25-40 years old). The requirements of ethical guidelines of American Psychological Association (APA) were met, and informed consent was taken before data collection. Brief Resilience Scale was used to measure resilience (Smith et al., 2008), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale was used to measure psychological distress (Addonizio and Patrick, 2011), and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support was used to measure perceived social support (Zimet et al., 1988). Pearson correlation analysis has demonstrated that there is a positive relationship between resilience and perceived social support besides the fact that both variables showed negative relationships with psychological distress. The moderation analysis revealed that the perceived social support had a significant buffering effect on the relationship between resilience and psychological distress and, therefore, it provides a form of protection to the parents who have to struggle with raising a child with autism. The present study limitations and implications have also been discussed.
The Impact of Blockchain Integration on Supply Chain Finance Performance, Transparency, and Trust
This study examined the impact of blockchain integration on supply chain finance (SCF) performance, transparency, and trust. With traditional SCF systems facing challenges such as delayed payments, information asymmetry, and transaction inefficiencies, blockchain technology offers decentralized, immutable, and real-time data sharing capabilities to enhance financial operations. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected from 312 professionals working in manufacturing, retail, and logistics sectors. Descriptive analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM) were applied to assess relationships among blockchain adoption, SCF performance, transparency, and trust. Results indicated that blockchain adoption significantly improved SCF performance (mean = 4.08), transaction verification speed (mean = 4.02), and cost efficiency (mean = 3.95). Transparency increased as stakeholders accessed real-time and verifiable financial data (mean = 4.05), while trust among supply chain partners was strengthened (mean = 4.04) due to the system’s immutable and auditable records. These findings demonstrated that blockchain acts as a strategic enabler for enhancing operational efficiency, information sharing, and stakeholder confidence in SCF operations. The study contributes to theory and practice by providing empirical evidence of blockchain’s role in fostering performance and relational benefits in supply chains. Recommendations include strategic blockchain implementation, employee training, governance alignment, and continuous monitoring of performance metrics. Future research could explore cross-border adoption, integration with emerging technologies, and long-term impacts across different industries.
Impact Of Parents’ Involvement on Children Performance
The involvement of parents affects their children's performance. Accordingly, the objectives of this research are to evaluate how parents and students view parental participation in their children's academic achievement and to examine the effects of parental involvement on students' academic performance. The current study employed a quantitative approach and a descriptive study design. All of the kids and their parents enrolled in Muzfrabad's public secondary schools made up the study's population. The study's sample size was chosen using the multisampling technique. 520 students from public secondary schools were chosen for the sample size using the census sampling technique, and 336 parents from same eleven schools were chosen using the convenience sampling technique. In order to gather information from study participants, the researchers created two questionnaires: one for parents and one for kids. Three qualified experts used the personal judgement approach to assess the study's instruments in the context of content validity. Additionally, the Cronbach's alpha model was used to assess the tools' internal consistency reliability, and the result was 0.824. Frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and simple linear regression were among the descriptive and inferential statistics used to analyse the data. The study came to the conclusion that parental participation has an effect on students' academic success and that there are notable disparities in how parents and students view parental involvement in students' academic achievement. According to the study, regular parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and feedback sessions might help schools promote open communication between parents, kids, and instructors. This will help to clarify the roles of family participation in academic performance and to align expectations.
The Structuring of Management Factors in Higher Educational Organizations
In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, ensuring institutional excellence hinges on a crucial factor: management structuring. Historically, universities have navigated a spectrum of governance models, transitioning from rigid, centralized bureaucracies to the more contemporary, decentralized and networked structures we see today. This paper delves into the intricate interplay between leadership styles, decision-making processes, and the very design of these institutions. It posits that effective management structuring transcends mere organizational charts. It is a dynamic ecosystem fostered by strong stakeholder engagement and a well-defined governance system. By drawing upon relevant theoretical frameworks, this paper aims to illuminate a path towards a deeper understanding of how management structures can be harnessed to empower higher education institutions. Ultimately, the goal is to unlock lasting effectiveness and fuel continuous innovation within the educational sphere.
Exploration of Class Conflict and Economic Exploitation: A Marxist Critique of Thomas Hardy’s The Mayor of Casterbridge
Marxism highlights the importance of literature that centers on the struggles and aspirations of the working classes. This study offers a Marxist analysis of Thomas Hardy’s The Mayor of Casterbridge, examining the novel through the theoretical framework propounded by Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, and their successors. Employing a hermeneutic and interpretive research design, the study investigates the dynamics of class struggle, economic determinism, and ideological power structures embedded within the social fabric of the narrative. The research explores how economic forces divide society into dominant and subordinate classes, shaping characters’ behavior, relationships, and moral choices. It demonstrates that the ruling industrial and capitalist class strives to sustain its economic dominance through exploitation, manipulation, and ideological control, while the working class remains entrapped in conditions of poverty and dependency. Through its exposure of class oppression, economic exploitation, and moral corruption, Hardy’s (1886) novel reflects the structural inequalities inherent in capitalist society. This study contributes to Marxist literary criticism by foregrounding the interplay between economic base and social superstructure in the text and provides a foundation for future research on class ideology in Hardy’s works and other Victorian novels.
Politics of Patriarchy: A Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis of Male Authority and Female Resistance in Shah’s Dystopian Novel Before She Sleeps
Patriarchy as a discursive and institutional structure is the root cause of systematic marginalization and mistreatment of women in all aspects of life. This paper provides a feminist Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) of Bina Shah’s Before She Sleeps, exploring how the construction, legitimation, and maintenance of male authority are linguistically enabled, and how female resistance is a counter-discursive practice. The novel presents a dystopian society in which totalitarianism is exercised by legal, religious, and moral discourses that enforce strict gender hierarchies, thus making it normal to conduct surveillance, regulation, and commodification of the female bodies. The protagonist’s acts of defiance as forms of discursive resistance are a means to disrupt the dominant patriarchal discourses. Through questioning the discursive site of power, control, and gendered subjugation, this paper shows how the ideology of patriarchy is exercised through the language to naturalize inequality and limit female agency. The findings of the study show that Before She Sleeps does not only reveal the processes of patriarchal domination, but also expresses a counter-hegemonic vision of female empowerment and transformative agency, which is possible through resistance within the discourse.
"Alauddin Khalji's Economic Policies: A Marxist Analysis of Market Control and State Intervention"
The paper aims to examine the complex change in inflation, price control, and state intervention in the economy from medieval India, with much emphasis on the Delhi Sultanate. The research problem is formed by the idea of how state machinery was used to check and control the prices and limit inflation, which further highlights the economic policies of different rulers. At the heart of their submission is that state interference was not just a response to financial disaster but also a mechanism used by rulers for political objectives. The paper explores price control policies used by rulers like Alauddin Khilji and inspects in depth the method and line of action he followed with its impact on the overall society. To achieve this purpose, the paper will use historical resources and other evidence that is available from the contemporary accounts and records of the top royal administration and supporting staff of the state with a proper investigation of the monetary analysis of how these mediations influence market dimensions and the ways of earning of the different social classes. The paper highlights the weaknesses of the existing histories of the state's efforts to monitor the financial problems and the responses of the subjects in a variety of ways. It sheds light on the need for long-term economic policies and political objectives of the rulers of medieval India. This term paper provides us with an impressive outlook of the Indian economy on a large scale with a deep understanding of the idea of justice and sustainable model of economic growth. Justice is well connected to good collection, good consumption, and good saving for the time of trouble. The study of economic history is one of the keys to devising a comprehensive mechanism for the success of a glorious productive and economic future. Moreover, good governance is a theme based on the economic well-being of the people and hence of the state. The paper shows the value of the price control system, which enabled the rulers of the Delhi Sultanate to rule efficiently but failed after the death of the king. The well-organized system of price control also shows the political stability and writ of the state.
Invisible Burdens Made Visible: Development and Validation of the Perceived Societal Expectation Scale for Housewives (PSESH)
The study was conducted to develop and validate and indigenous Perceived Societal Expectation Scale for Housewives. The study was conducted in three phases in first phase 20 housewives with age range 20 to 45 years were interviewed by using semi-structured interview method to explore the phenomenology and initial 47 items were generated and two items removed due to irrelevance. After the expert opinion of 5 experts 15 items removed and 32 items were used in final scale to explore the factor structure. In the second Phase 128 house were investigated with age range 20 to 45(Mage=32.59, SD= 7.82) to explore the factor structure of the scale. Exploratory Factor Analysis was conducted and its result indicated 8 factors name Familial Societal Expectation, Domestic Familial Expectation, Behavioral Expectations, Social Compliance, Sacrificial Expectations, Familial Adjustment Expectations, Personal Autonym Expectations and Tolerance Expectation. In third phase the 300 housewives were investigated with age range of 20 to 45 (Mage= 30.95, SD= 1.27) which confirmed the factor structure and indicated that the scale is culturally valid and reliable. The implications and recommendation of the scale are discussed below.
A Comparative Study of Substantive Offences and Enforcement Mechanisms Under the Cyber Laws of Pakistan and the United Kingdom
The rapid proliferation of digital technologies has necessitated the enactment of robust cyber laws across jurisdictions. This research paper presents a comparative analysis of the substantive offences and enforcement mechanisms under the cyber law regimes of Pakistan and the United Kingdom (UK). Pakistan's primary legislative framework, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA) is examined alongside the UK's Computer Misuse Act 1990 (CMA), the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (IPA), and the Online Safety Act 2023. The paper explores definitional gaps, enforcement disparities, procedural safeguards, institutional capacity, and the effectiveness of each jurisdiction's approach to combating cybercrime. Through doctrinal and comparative legal methodology, the study identified critical legislative lacunae in Pakistan's framework, contrasting these with the relatively mature and adaptive legal infrastructure of the UK. The findings for substantive legislative reforms in Pakistan informed by best practices from the UK model while respecting Pakistan's unique socio-political context.
Violence Against Women in Punjab: CEDAW Compliance and Persistent Gaps
This article analyzes one crisis, the violence against women (VAW) in Punjab, Pakistan, in the context of the CEDAW compliance. Although legislative progress has achieved significant gains in 2016 (such as the Punjab Protection of Women against Violence Act 2016), the Anti-Rape Act 2020, and the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act 2018, the VAW crisis still has no structural solution because of three compounding failures: the continued refusal to meet the CEDAW commitment through decades of not withdrawing the reservations on the main articles; a disastrous lack of connection between law and practice indicated by the pathetically low rates of conviction; The article argues that bridging the justice gap requires systemic change rather than gradual modification that will involve legal intervention and complete institutional investment as well as change in the cultural paradigms that perpetuate gender-based violence in Punjab.
Spatial and Social Determinants of Low Enrollment in PEF Schools: Insights from School Heads
Despite initiatives to increase fair access to education, low enrollment in Punjab education foundation assisted schools is still a recurrent problem in Pakistan. This purpose of this study is to find the reasons why schools face a problem of low enrollment and how socioeconomic and geographic factors work together to create low enrollment trends. Semi-structured interviews with head teachers at PEF schools were used to gather insights and thematic analysis was done to qualitative data. Poor economic conditions of the parents, skill learning or labor work, madrassah education, migration towards other schools, educational policies, long period vocations, improper infrastructure and gender disparities are some interconnected determinants of low enrollment at the PEF schools. The results show that low enrollment is a multifaceted educational injustice rooted in social and geographic circumstances rather than just a school-level problem. The study offers some actionable recommendations to improve students’ participation in schools, such as; raising awareness among the community and parents, promoting skill-based learning, implementing sustained educational policies and giving incentives and providing secure environment to reduce gender disparity.
A Needs Analysis of Academic English Language Skills among ESL Postgraduate Scholars in Jhang District
Academic success in ESL requires English language proficiency especially on postgraduate research scholars in Pakistan. This is a qualitative research examining the. English language learning needs of ESL MPhil research scholars in Jhang, concentrating on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills needed in academic and research purposes. Data were gathered as the result of semi-structured interviews conducted with 30 participants and were then analyzed based on a thematic analysis in order to determine patterns and recurring themes. The results show that the respondents have serious issues associated with vocabulary and grammar, sentence structure, comprehension, fluency, and pronunciation, which affect their reading research papers, writing academic papers, presenting research, speaking to supervisors, and participating in professional and international partnerships. The research paper gives prominence to the relevance of a systematic needs analysis in designing learner-centered English language programs that suit the needs of postgraduate scholars in specific academic and research areas. Discussions on implications that may be applied in curriculum development, institute teaching methods and institutional support are provided with a focus on how English as an Academic Purpose (EAP) can be used to help ESL scholars increase their academic performance and research potential in semi-urban settings.
Between Silence and Resistance: A Fragmented Response of Afghan Civil Society Towards the Taliban’s Second Emirate
The return of Taliban’s second emirate into power, on 15 august 2021, marked a decisive authoritarian reversal in Afghanistan. Following the withdrawal of international forces, the Taliban rapidly consolidated control over state institutions. This transition fundamentally reconfigured the working space for Afghan civil society. The purpose of this research is to analyze the responses of the Afghan civil society toward the Taliban regime, with a specific focus on their policies towards education, women's rights, and governance. In doing so, it also addresses the conceptual gap in west-centric understandings of Afghan civil society by highlighting Afghan civil society internal fragmentation and adaptative political strategies. Utilizing information from 17 in-depth qualitative interviews conducted with the civil society actors in Afghanistan and Pakistan, we came across three kinds of responses which can be categorized as strategic silence, vocal support, and vocal opposition. While many respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the Taliban's policies, the dominant response was strategic silence, which is a calculated reponse shaped by security risk, surveillance, and the erosion of organizational networks. The study conceptualizes strategic silence not as apathy, but as an adaptative political strategy under authoritarian consolidation. The study suggests that without an inclusive Afghan government, international recognition, and basic democratic rights, the Taliban regime will always be vulnerable to violence, instability, and eventual decline.
The Role of Digital Citizenship Education in Promoting Ethical Technology Use among Secondary School Students in Pakistan
The rapid integration of digital technologies into education and everyday life has heightened the need for responsible and ethical technology use among young learners. This study explores the role of digital citizenship education in promoting ethical technology practices among secondary school students in Pakistan. It examines how structured instruction in areas such as online safety, cyber ethics, digital literacy, and responsible communication can shape students’ attitudes and behaviors in the digital environment. Using a mixed‑methods approach, the research investigates both teachers’ perspectives and students’ experiences to assess the effectiveness of digital citizenship initiatives within the Pakistani educational context. Findings suggest that embedding digital citizenship education into the curriculum not only enhances students’ awareness of ethical technology use but also fosters critical thinking, respect for diversity, and responsible participation in online communities. The study underscores the importance of policy support, teacher training, and culturally relevant resources to ensure that digital citizenship education becomes a sustainable tool for preparing students to navigate the challenges of the digital age responsibly.
Global Power Competition Implications for Pakistan
This research analyzes the changing geopolitics popularly under the broader theme of global power competition, with emphasis on the strategic interactions between Russia, China, and the United States, and their complex implications for Pakistan. Grounded on theoretical frameworks of realism, geopolitical models, and constructivism, the research contextualises the global power rivalries in relation to them and evolving international alignments. It highlights remarkable continuities like weapons competition and proxy warfare but finds new features like economic interdependence, cyber conflict, and multilateral institutionalized relationships.
Essential Oil Extraction and Characterization of Seeds of Chrozophora Tinctoria
Essential oil is complex mixture of volatile organic compounds that are derived from terpenoids and alkaloids through biosynthetic pathways, including the phenylpropene, methylerythritol, and mevalonate pathways. This oil is valuable in pharmaceuticals and can act as herbicides, pesticides, antimicrobials, or anticancer agents. The study aimed to extract oil from the seeds of Chrozophora tinctoria using the Clevenger apparatus and to characterize the extracted oil through UV and FTIR spectroscopy. This analysis focused on determining the chemical composition and physical properties of the oil, identifying functional groups, and detecting potential bioactive compounds. In Sample 1, the study identified eight peaks corresponding to specific functional groups, such as aldehydes, ketones, amines, esters, ethers, and aromatic structures. These functional groups were determined based on characteristic vibrations, including C-H bending, C-N stretching, and C-O stretching, which provides insight into the sample's chemical composition. On the other hand, sample 2, exhibited 14 peaks, suggesting a more complex mixture with functional groups like bromoalkenes, ethers, esters, and aromatic rings. The spectral analysis of this sample revealed vibrations such as C-Cl and C-Br stretching, along with C-O and O-H stretching, indicating the presence of various organic compounds. This characterization provides valuable insights into the oil's chemical properties, supporting its potential for further research, industrial applications, and the development of valuable products from Chrozophora tinctoria.
The Psychological Impact of Instructor Language on University Students: A Comparative Analysis with Taare Zameen Par on Student Behavior, Learning, and Emotional Well-Being
This study explores the psychological impact of instructor language on university students, with a comparative lens drawn from the film Taare Zameen Par. Utilizing Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory and Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, this framework investigates how empathetic versus authoritative language influences student behavior, learning outcomes, and emotional well-being. Qualitative method is applied to this research, and its focus groups and thematic analysis contextualize these findings through student reflections and response in study and overall behavior. The study aims to identify correlations between instructor language and positive emotional and behavioral outcomes, highlighting the relevance of empathetic communication modeled in Taare Zameen Par. The findings suggest that supportive, encouraging instructor language enhances motivation, engagement, and emotional regulation. This research contributes to the broader understanding of how language shapes learning experiences and offers practical implications for fostering emotionally supportive academic environments.
From Slogans to Reckoning: Analyzing the Aurat March and its Digital Backlash
This research examines the evolution of the Aurat March from 2021 to 2024, focusing on the changing narratives surrounding gender dynamics in Pakistan. The objective is to analyze the visual and textual elements of placards, social media discourse, and the impact of feminist activism. Utilizing semiotic and discourse analysis methodologies, the study decodes the meanings behind slogans and placards while tracking shifts in online comments regarding the movement. The findings reveal a significant transformation in the narratives presented at the Aurat March, with slogans evolving from direct confrontations of the male gaze to broader calls for gender equality and the dismantling of patriarchal structures. Discourse analysis indicates a shift from religious backlash to more nuanced discussions, reflecting increased support for the movement and a growing willingness to challenge misogynistic viewpoints. The research contributes to feminist theory by highlighting the intersectionality of gender oppression and the role of public discourse in shaping societal attitudes. Ultimately, the study underscores the Aurat March as a vital platform for advancing women's rights in Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and community engagement in fostering social change.
Relationship of Paid Social Media Advertisement with Brand Equity: Mediating Role of Emotional Brand Attachment among Cosmetics Consumers
The cosmetic industry in Pakistan is rapidly growing, especially the use of social media for advertising, which demands innovative strategies. Previous studies have explored different aspects of social media engagement on brand equity across various retail and service sectors. This research extends on these studies by examining the association of paid social media advertisement on brand equity and its dimensions (brand image, brand awareness and brand loyalty), also it is focusing the mediating role of emotional brand attachment for this relationship, specifically within the context of Pakistan’s cosmetic industry. Using a quantitative research approach, data via self-administered questionnaires from 315 female respondents were collected from Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Data were analyzed using SmartPLS. Study results indicate that paid social media advertisement is favorably associated with the brand equity and its dimensions, and emotional brand attachment mediates this relationship. The findings further underscore how strong emotional attachment enhances the effects of social media advertisement on brand image and loyalty, reinforcing consumers’ emotional connections with cosmetic brands are pivotal in elevating brand equity. Lastly, the discussion highlights the implications for the extant literature and for the marketers in the cosmetic industry, suggesting that tailored social media strategies fostering emotional brand attachment can significantly elevate brand equity.
Socioeconomic Impacts of Climate Change on Rural Livelihoods in Pakistan
Pakistan ranks among the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, with rural communities comprising 65–70% of the population and heavily dependent on climate-sensitive agriculture, livestock, and fisheries bearing the brunt of its impacts. This review synthesizes the multifaceted socioeconomic consequences of climate change across Pakistan’s diverse agro-ecological zones, drawing on meteorological trends, disaster records, and livelihood studies from 2018 to 2025. Rising temperatures (national average increase of 0.57–0.63 °C over the past century, with accelerated warming in the northern highlands), erratic monsoons, glacial melt, and frequent extreme events such as the 2022 floods (affecting 33 million people and causing >USD 30 billion in damages) have destabilized agricultural production, triggered widespread livestock losses, degraded fisheries in the Indus Delta, and intensified water scarcity. These biophysical shocks translate into severe socioeconomic outcomes: declining crop yields (particularly wheat, rice, and cotton), increased rural poverty (projected 3.7–4.0 percentage point rise post-2022 floods), deepening debt traps through informal credit systems, heightened food insecurity, and accelerated climate-induced migration. The impacts are profoundly gendered, with women facing intensified labor burdens, restricted mobility during disasters, and heightened psychosocial stress. Institutional responses, including the National Climate Change Policy and community-based adaptation initiatives, remain hampered by implementation gaps, limited financing, and insufficient integration of local knowledge. The paper concludes that without urgent, scaled-up adaptation measures encompassing climate-smart agriculture, improved water governance, diversified livelihoods, and gender-responsive policies rural livelihoods in Pakistan face existential threats that could undermine national food security and socioeconomic stability in the coming decades.
Examining the Impact of Aversive Leadership on Employee Psychological Distress: The Mediating Role of Anger and the Moderating Role of Psychological Resilience
This study examined aversive leadership and employee psychological distress, focusing on anger as a mediator and psychological resilience as a potential moderator. A quantitative and cross-sectional design approach was used to analyzing survey data from 122 participants in Pakistan's healthcare, education, manufacturing, and services facilities through regression and mediation/moderation analysis using SPSS. Aversive leadership has a significant impact on employees' psychological distress, and this relationship is shaped by anger. Psychological resilience had no reduced effect. To ensure employee well-being, toxic leadership must be addressed. This study highlights the importance of emotional reactions – especially anger – in linking poor leadership to psychological distress among employees. By highlighting this relationship, the study highlights the importance of companies addressing toxic leadership styles to protect employee health and promote a more positive work environment. Future research should focus on secondary and alternative resilience designs to address the limitations of this study regarding the non-significant moderating role of resilience, perhaps in terms of issues with a cross-sectional design that limits causal inference or the use of self-reported data, for which the same method may introduce bias. The results show how important it is for companies to develop leadership initiatives that support emotional intelligence and reduce negative leadership practices. Employee psychological distress can be reduced through interventions that focus on stress and anger management. Furthermore, even if communication resilience did not change significantly in this study, the construction of organizational resilience is still important.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystems and New Venture Success in Pakistan: The Roles of Alertness and Bricolage
Purpose: This study is based on the bricolage theory and analyzes the environmental munificence and available resources to the success of a new venture through the mediation of bricolage and moderating effect of entrepreneurial alertness. The research is placed within the context of Pakistan, an institutionally unstable and resource-constrained market, where entrepreneurial success is frequently based on resource mobilization, as opposed to abundance. Design/Methodology/Approach The research utilized quantitative research design based on a survey data collected from 383 entrepreneurs. The direct, mediating, and moderating relationships between environmental munificence and available resources and bricolage, entrepreneurial alertness, and new venture success were tested using partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings: The findings show that the munificence of the environment and access to resources have a significant impact on the bricolage behavior. In turn, bricolage highly affects new venture success and somewhat mediates the environmental conditions and the success of new venture. Moreover, entrepreneurial alertness plays a significant moderating role in the relationship between bricolage and venture success, implying that opportunity recognition capability determines the viability of bricolage. Theoretical and practical Implications: This research builds upon the bricolage theory by confirming its mechanisms by empirical evidence in an emerging economy setting and incorporating the concept of entrepreneurial alertness as a boundary condition that affects bricolage behavior. The results indicate that entrepreneurial success in a resource-constrained environment is not only dependent on the external conditions but also the ability of the entrepreneur to creatively combine and discover opportunities. Originality/Value: This study enhances theoretical understanding of entrepreneurial action in the context of scarcity by framing and placing both bricolage as a mediating process and contingent ability of the context.
Role of School Climate and Teacher Support in Preventing Bullying in Urban Secondary Schools
Bullying in urban secondary schools remains a critical issue, influenced by socioeconomic disparities and community stressors, with significant implications for student well-being and academic outcomes. This review synthesizes empirical and theoretical evidence on the role of school climate a construct encompassing relationships, safety, teaching and learning, and institutional environment and teacher support in mitigating peer aggression. Drawing on frameworks such as Social-Ecological Theory, Self-Determination Theory, and bullying as "destructive communal coping," the analysis highlights how positive school climates foster connectedness, clear norms, and emotional security, reducing victimization by up to 30–50% in targeted interventions. Teacher support, through autonomy-supportive practices and proactive management, enhances bystander intervention and student engagement. Evidence from programs like Second Step and STAC-T demonstrates that integrated strategies, including policy enforcement and professional development, yield sustained reductions in bullying (e.g., 20–40% in urban districts). Recommendations emphasize systemic reforms tailored to urban contexts, including trauma-informed training and community partnerships, to promote equitable, safe learning environments.
“Age-Based Differences in Perceptions of Education’s Role in Reducing Cultural Restrictions on Women’s Mobility”
The limited mobility of women is still one of the most ingrained gender inequality manifestations in most traditional communities. It has been generally accepted that education is one of the potent tools of breaking the binding constraints of cultural values and allowing women to move socially and physically. But the perceptions of people towards this role of education might be different among the various age groups because of the difference in socialization, exposure to modern values, and educational experience. This study discusses the presence or absence of age difference in the perception towards the role of education in mitigating cultural limits to women movement outside their home. The study used descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc comparison to study the variation in mean age when considering levels of five levels of agreement based on the statement: Education reduces cultural restrictions connected to women movement outside the home. The results indicate that, although some slight differences between age were found between the various categories of agreements, the findings of the ANOVA test were not significantly different which expounds on the fact that age is not a potent factor in influencing these perceptions. But post hoc analysis revealed a significant difference between those who were neutral and those who strongly agreed with the analysis with the neutral having a large age difference. The research finds that the views on the role of education in the mobility of women are predominantly similar in all age groups indicating a great societal agreement. Policy implications on educational policy, gender equity enterprise and social change strategies are discussed.
Artificial intelligence tools, particularly Meta AI, are increasingly being used in education. Understanding the potential academic advantages of such tools is important for integrating emerging technologies into modern educational practices. The study adopted a quantitative research approach and was conducted on undergraduate and postgraduate students of four universities in Lahore, Pakistan, including two public and two private institutions. The population consisted of all the students enrolled in these universities, and a sample of 400 students was selected through multi stage random sampling technique to ensure representation from different academic disciplines and levels. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of closed-ended statements measures on five point Likert type scale . The instrument was adapted from previous studies on AI use in education and modified according to the objectives of the present research. The questionnaire measured perceived academic benefits of Meta AI including learning improvement, academic performance, creativity, and time management. The reliability of the instrument was ensured through Cronbach’s Alpha reliability index, which indicated acceptable internal consistency. The collected data were analyzed using IBM SPSS 24 (trial version). Both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were applied, including frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, independent sample t-tests, and ANOVA to examine demographic differences. The findings revealed that students generally perceive Meta AI as a beneficial academic tool. The results indicated that Meta AI contributes to improved learning and understanding, enhanced academic performance and quality of work, increased creativity and idea generation, and better time management and efficiency. Demographic analysis showed that undergraduate students reported slightly higher perceived benefits compared to postgraduate students, while no significant difference was found based on gender. Variations were observed across age groups and departments, with younger students and students from departments such as Pharm-D and Education reporting higher perceived benefits. It is recommended that universities should guide students for the responsible use of AI tools, provide digital literacy training, and develop institutional policy to maximize the academic benefits of emerging AI technologies.
Emerging Morphological and Syntactic Patterns in Pakistani English: Evidence from Online Game Chats of Generation Z and Generation Alpha
This study investigates morphological and syntactic innovations in Pakistani English as used by Generation Z and Generation Alpha in online gaming interactions. Rapid expansion of digital communication and gaming communities has led to noticeable linguistic adaptations characterized by informal, efficient, and context-specific language use. The study aims to identify emerging morphological processes and syntactic patterns in game chat discourse while examining them through perspectives such as distributed morphology, word-formation processes, and principles of universal grammar. In addition, syntactic deviations from standard Pakistani English are explored using parse tree analysis and computer-mediated discourse analysis. The research adopts a qualitative design with purposive sampling. The target population comprises individuals born between 1999–2012 (Generation Z) and 2013 onwards (Generation Alpha). A sample of 50 participants was selected based on their active engagement in online gaming, particularly Roblox, Minecraft, and Call of Duty for more than two hours daily and their participation in gaming chat communities. To ensure privacy, data were collected through a survey questionnaire developed from authentic gaming chat scenarios. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis following Clarke and Braun (2006). Findings indicate a preference for simplified morphological constructions and flexible syntactic structures that facilitate rapid and meaningful communication in digital environments, reflecting ongoing linguistic innovation among Pakistani youth.
Measuring the Impact of AI-Powered Mentorship on Confidence and Motivation Levels of Women Entrepreneurs in Hyderabad, Sindh: A Qualitative Study
This qualitative study attempts to identify the impact of AI (Artificial intelligence) powered mentorship on the Confidence level and motivation levels of women entrepreneurs in Sindh district (Hyderabad). With the passing of time the usage of AI tools increasing a lot. AI also become useful for women who are running smalls business set ups in home. Now women are fully depend on AI tools for business supports, for decisions making, for making new creative ideas and for auto-responses customer handling and with gaining news skills. Information were collected through digital telephone with using open ended interview questions. Data were collected to four working women those business are cake baking, homemade food making, jewelry design making and handmade embroidery. Thematic data analysis used in this research.
Post-Afghanistan Withdrawal: Reassessing US–Pakistan Relations, Challenges and Prospects
This study examines the evolution of US–Pakistan relations following the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan, focusing on the strategic, political, and economic implications for Pakistan. Drawing on primary sources such as official policy statements, government reports, and interviews, alongside secondary sources including scholarly articles and think-tank analyses, the research explores the shifting dynamics of bilateral ties in a post-Afghanistan context. Key issues analyzed include changes in security cooperation, regional stability, trade and economic engagement, and Pakistan’s strategic recalibration amid US–China competition. The study highlights the challenges Pakistan faces, including reduced U.S. influence in aid and policy support, heightened regional uncertainties, and the need for diversified foreign policy approaches. Simultaneously, it identifies prospects for redefining bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, counterterrorism, and regional diplomacy. Overall, the research provides a comprehensive assessment of Pakistan’s strategic options and the evolving nature of US-Pakistan relations in the aftermath of Afghanistan’s transition.
Joint Socioeconomic and Psychological Drivers of Pro-Environmental Behavior in China: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Integration
Drawing upon earlier research findings on the connection between socioeconomic state and pro-environmental behaviour (PEB), this paper presents a systematic review of the socioeconomic and psychological factors related to PEB among Chinese residents and makes an overall proposal for a conceptual framework combining the two factors. With China undergoing serious environmental issues in the backdrop of rapid industrialization and urbanisation, the identification of PEB determinants plays an important role to advance sustainable behaviour at individual and social level. This review provides important indicators that income, education and regional variation are important socioeconomic factors which influence the environmental attitudes and behaviours of the individuals. It also determines the psychological stages of environmental concern, personal values, and perceived behavioural control that determine the decisions of people to be involved in the sustainable behaviours. Moreover, the aspect of government policies and social norms particularly in cities is examined as the motivational one to PEB in China. The findings have revealed that there is a complicated interaction among economic, psychological and institutional/social aspects, which implies that a linear approach is needed to explain PEB. Though there have been numerous theories suggested including the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and the Social Exchange Theory (SET) they are not enough to understand the particular socio-cultural and political situation in China. The review proposes a conceptual model integrated where it encompasses these factors with the emphasis on the necessity of modifying the Western models to the Chinese setting. The research offers theoretical knowledge regarding PEB and offers policy implications to practitioners who would want to achieve sustainable behaviour in China. The review discusses the gaps on the literature and provides the rationale leading to observation on the future studies as well as development of effective policies to promote the environmental sustainability in China.
Experimental Narrative Techniques in Pakistani English Fiction: A Focused Study Of Kamila Shamsie’s Burnt Shadows
This paper explores how contemporary Pakistani English fiction can be characterized by modernist innovation, illustrated by Kamila Shamsie's 2009 novel Burnt Shadows. Her pre-existing scholarship has largely predetermined the politics of the post-9/11 diaspora, Islamophobia, and trauma in the oeuvre of Shamsie; however, this investigation will argue that her methodologies and structures have not been explored to their full extent. Drawing on the works of Joseph Frank (the theory of spatial form), Mikhail Bakhtin (the concept of polyphony), and Gerard Genette (the narratological framework), we will examine why Shamsie resorts to non-linear chronology, temporal fragmentation, shifting focalization, and intertextuality as conscious modernist techniques. This discussion shows that these experimental effects are not mere style embellishments, and they are necessary processes that define transnational and trans-historical trauma. The novel spatialises history and disrupts Eurocentric histories of development by interwining the historic episodes of Nagasaki (1945) and Partition (1947) with those of the Cold War Afghanistan (1980s) and the post-9/11 America. This study, therefore, makes case of involving the work of fellow researcher, whereby principal work titled, Burnt Shadows, are a timely intervention still being made into the development of the global modernist canon, in that the current Pakistani Anglophone fiction has not merely superseded the tenets of realist literature, but explores various forms of formal experimentation as a way of redefining the political and aesthetic redirctions of the novel.
On nearly Hall S-Semi Embedded Subgroups and P-Nilpotency of Finite Groups
A subgroup〖 S〗_1≤G, is said to be nearly Hall s-semiembedded within G (N_HSseG) if there exits S_2⊴G such that S_1 S_2 is S-semiembedded in G( s_seG) and〖 S〗_1∩S_2≤(S_1 )_nSG, where (S_1 )_nSG is created by those subgroups of 〖 S〗_1 which are Hall S-semiembedded in G 〖( H〗_SseG). In this paper, we investigate new notion of nearly Hall s-semiembedded subgroups on the structure of a finite group. Moreover, some new criteria were established for p-nilpotency and supersolvability of a finite group using nearly Hall s-semiembedded subgroups. Our results about formations are extension of some earlier theorems available in literature.
Border Tensions and Strategic Rivalry: The Pakistan–Afghanistan Conflict in Regional and Global Perspective
The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been complex and often tense since the creation of Pakistan in 1947. Political disputes, border disagreements, security concerns, and militant activities have shaped the dynamics between the two neighboring states. The most prominent issue is the disagreement over the Durand Line border and the presence of militant groups operating across the border. These tensions have periodically escalated into diplomatic crises, military clashes, and economic disruptions. This research paper examines the historical background of the Pakistan–Afghanistan conflict, the key causes behind the tensions, and the consequences for regional and global politics.
Climate-Resilient Landscaping in Peshawar: Integrating Heat and Cold Tolerance with Social and Therapeutic Benefits
Urban areas across the world are increasingly exposed to climate variability, particularly rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, and seasonal temperature extremes. These changes pose serious challenges for the sustainability of urban landscapes, especially in rapidly expanding cities where green spaces are declining. Peshawar, located in northwestern Pakistan, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by extremely hot summers with temperatures exceeding 40 °C and relatively cold winters approaching freezing conditions. Such climatic extremes require the selection of landscape plants capable of tolerating both heat and cold stress while maintaining ecological, aesthetic, and functional value. At the same time, urban green spaces are increasingly recognized for their social and therapeutic roles, contributing to psychological well-being, stress reduction, and community interaction. The present study aimed to identify and evaluate climate-resilient plant species suitable for urban landscaping in Peshawar while simultaneously assessing their social and therapeutic benefits. Plant species were selected using criteria including heat tolerance, cold tolerance, drought resistance, adaptability to urban soils, ornamental value, and potential contribution to psychological and social well-being. Information was synthesized from scientific literature, horticultural references, field observations of urban landscapes, and expert consultation with horticulture and landscape professionals. An integrated evaluation framework combining climate adaptability, landscape functionality, and therapeutic attributes was used to assess plant suitability. The analysis identified several species, including Bougainvillea spp., Lagerstroemia indica, Azadirachta indica, Ficus religiosa, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Rosa spp., Lantana camara, and Moringa oleifera, as highly suitable for climate-resilient urban landscapes in Peshawar. These plants demonstrated strong tolerance to temperature extremes and drought conditions while offering multiple environmental and social benefits such as shade provision, ornamental beauty, air purification, cultural significance, and psychological relaxation. The study highlights the importance of integrating climate resilience with human-centered landscape design in urban planning. The adoption of climate-adapted ornamental and functional plants can enhance environmental sustainability while promoting healthier and more socially engaging urban environments. The findings provide practical guidance for urban planners, municipal authorities, and landscape architects in designing resilient and therapeutic green spaces in cities experiencing climatic stress.
A Comprehensive Review of the Test for Assessment of Articulation and Phonology in Urdu (TAAPU)
The Test for Assessment of Articulation and Phonology in Urdu (TAAPU) was developed to assess speech sound production in Urdu-speaking children in Pakistan. This review examines the aims, structure, psychometric properties, and clinical implications of the TAAPU while evaluating its contribution to the field of speech-language pathology. TAAPU represents an essential step toward creating linguistically and culturally appropriate diagnostic tools for Urdu-speaking populations. Although preliminary findings suggest promise, there remains a need for transparent reporting of reliability and validity data, broader standardization across dialects, and further empirical testing. The review concludes that TAAPU lays a valuable foundation for future speech assessment instruments within South Asian contexts.
Navigating Politeness strategies by analyzing Public Responses to Caretaker PM Anwar Ul Haq Kakar's Press Conference on Baloch Yakjehti Council's Protest
This study aimed to characterize the politeness strategies used by social media users in commenting on Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar's Press Conference on the Baloch Yakjehti Council's Protest in Islamabad. The researchers employed Brown and Levinson's (1987) theory of politeness strategy. The researcher used a descriptive-qualitative approach in this study. The purpose of this research is to provide additional explanation of the politeness strategies users employed when commenting on the PM press conference. The information was gathered from user statements and from data sources used in documents, such as a post by Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar on his official Facebook page. The researcher is the tool used in this investigation. Data collection and analysis techniques involve documentation, data reduction, data display, and conclusion. Audience responses demonstrate a mix of positive and negative politeness strategies, highlighting an effort to connect with the audience while addressing sensitive topics and acknowledging differing opinions. Positive and negative politeness strategies are tagged for this study in MAXQDA. The politeness scheme is used to tag data. Findings of the study demonstrate that on social media, people use language that follows politeness strategies to show respect for others and also to social distance.
Factors Affecting the Promotion of College Education in District Khyber, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
The problem under the study was factors affecting the promotion of college education in District Khyber, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The main objective of the study was to identify the factors affecting the promotion of college education and sub objectives were Socio economic and Socio cultural influences on the promotion of college education in district Khyber. This study was quantitative in nature. Population of the study was teaching staff of college level and students of college level in district Khyber. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample. Data was collected through closed ended questionnaire from the sample. Data was analyzed through tabulation and descriptive statistics. The results reflected that socio-cultural and socio-economic have significant influence on the continuation of college education in merged district of Khyber, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Exploring the Impact of Decentralization on Public Service Delivery in Pakistan, with a Focus on Local Governance
Though various decentralization reforms have been adopted in Pakistan, such as the historic Devolution Plan 2001 and the introduction of subsequent constitutional reforms like the 18 th Amendment, there are still great challenges in the way of local delivery of the public services. Although decentralization has its theoretical advantages in terms of efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness, which are expected to be brought about by empowering the local governments, the empirical evidence has indicated that the intended advantages have not been equally distributed among the provinces or sectors. The Research Objectives of the study are: To investigate how the reforms in decentralization as they were enforced in 2001 through the Devolution Plan and other governance programs have affected the quality, accessibility and efficiency of local government delivery of the public services in Pakistan. To establish and determine the administrative, fiscal and political conditions that enable or prevent the efficient local government performance in delivering decentralized administrative services in various provinces and urban-rural settings. To determine the importance of citizen participation and community involvement in determining the effectiveness and outcome of the decentralized governance in enhancing the provision of public services in the local government institutions. The qualitative research design used in this study was to investigate the effects of the decentralization in the delivery of local public services in Pakistan with respect to local governance systems. To obtain detailed information about the practices of institutions, policy execution, and experiences of the stakeholders, the qualitative approaches were employed. The research population was 8-10 local government officers, policy makers, administrative officers and community people who were either directly involved or directly affected by the decentralization process in Pakistan. Semistructured interviews were used to gather data and data analysis has been done using document. Thematic analysis was used to find out patterns, categories and themes of the qualitative data. It complied with ethical principles in the course of the study. The participants were aware of the aim of the study and were asked to give permission to participate in the research prior to the actual collection of the data.
Exploring the Relationship Between Motivation And Willingness to Communicate in English among Pakistani Undergraduate Students
Motivational orientations and willingness to communicate (WTC) are often considered closely connected. However, previous studies indicate that learners’ motivation to study a second language (L2) does not always correspond with their actual willingness to speak the language. Consequently, earlier research has reported varying results when examining the relationship between motivation and WTC. The present study explored the willingness to communicate in English among English as a Second Language (ESL) students in relation to both integrative and instrumental motivational orientations. A total of 450 undergraduate students from different institutions in the Sindh region participated in the study. Using a cluster sampling method, data were collected through questionnaires that measured students’ willingness to communicate in English within classroom settings as well as their motivation to learn the language. The findings revealed that students demonstrated a high level of willingness to communicate during activities such as group work, interactions with the same gender, classroom tasks that involved preparation time, and situations where they were seated at the front of the classroom. In contrast, their willingness to communicate was only moderate in situations involving interaction with the opposite gender, when seated in the middle or back of the classroom, and when speaking in front of the entire class. Moreover, the results showed that the participants possessed strong levels of both integrative and instrumental motivation. However, instrumental motivation was found to be stronger than integrative motivation. The analysis also indicated a significant relationship between students’ willingness to communicate in English and both types of motivational orientations. Based on these findings, the study proposed several pedagogical recommendations for educators, curriculum developers, and other stakeholders involved in ESL education.
Barriers to Female Education in Rural Areas: A Case Study of PEF Partner Schools
Purpose of this study was to explore the barriers to female education in rural areas, focusing on Punjab Education Foundation (PEF) partner schools. Girls in the rural setting have a number of challenges that prevent their access to education despite attempts to enhance access to education. The study was conducted to identify those challenges that hinder girls’ education. The qualitative research design was used. Population of the study was all the parents/community member all over the rural areas of Lahore having out of school girls. The sample of the study was five purposely selected parents/community members of out of school girls live in rural areas within the premises of PEF partner school. The data was collected using semi-structured interview protocol to get insights of parents/community members regarding barriers to female education in the rural areas. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis, with NVivo software utilized for organizing, coding, and identifying emergent themes. The analysis revealed that girls' education in rural areas of Lahore is limited by interrelated economic, social, and cultural barriers, such as poverty, household chores, security concerns, and mobility restrictions. Yet both parents and girls value education, seeing it as a path to independence and a better future. On the basis of the result of the study, it is suggested to improv financial support, transport, school security, community awareness, parental involvement, and flexible birth-certificate provision time policies to help girls to enroll in school and continue their education.
Effect of Climate Change on Agricultural Livelihood: A Qualitative Study
This article investigates the gendered impact of climate change on agricultural livelihoods in rain-dependent villages of Attock District, Rawalpindi Division (Punjab, Pakistan). Drawing on 24 semi-structured interviews with twelve men and twelve women conducted in Domel and Basal, the study shows how unpredictable rainfall, increasing water scarcity, and declining yields undermine household food security and income stability. Women bear disproportionate burdens, including increased water fetching, livestock care, and household resource management, while remaining excluded from major household decision-making. Men and women adopt different coping mechanisms to manage harsh and unpredictable climate conditions; these include livelihood diversification, home gardening, and community cooperation, yet they remain insufficient without structural support. Using a Marxist feminist framework, the study demonstrates how patriarchal and capitalist relations intensify the invisible exploitation of women’s reproductive labor, further burdening already overworked women in rural households. The findings highlight the urgent need for gender-inclusive policies, farmer training, and recognition of women’s contributions to strengthen climate resilience in Pakistan’s vulnerable agrarian communities.
Javed Iqbal Afgaar and the Tradition of Contemporary Pashto Tazkira Writing: A Research Study
This research article investigates the contribution of Javed Iqbal Afgaar to the tradition of contemporary Pashto Tazkira writing, with a particular focus on his literary significance as a modern Tazkira writer. Afgaar is a contemporary Pashto literary figure who has made meaningful contributions across multiple genres of literature; however, his work in Tazkira writing stands out due to its innovative structure, intellectual depth, and modern critical approach. His notable Tazkiras, including Khair-ul-Abrar-e-Nabi, Amil-da-Guloono, Mawaddat, Da Guloono Peshawara, and Pakhtunkhwa Guloona, reflect a renewed vision of Pashto Tazkira tradition. These works go beyond mere biographical documentation by incorporating elements of literary criticism, cultural consciousness, and social awareness. Afgaar’s balanced approach to portraying literary personalities—combining narrative detail with analytical insight—distinguishes his Tazkiras from classical models. The study analyzes the thematic dimensions, stylistic characteristics, and research value of Afgaar’s Tazkira writings and argues that his contributions have significantly enriched contemporary Pashto literature. The findings indicate that Javed Iqbal Afgaar occupies an important position in modern Pashto Tazkira writing and that his works offer a strong foundation for future research in this genre.
Narcissism, Forgiveness and Relationship Satisfaction in Romantic Relationships Among Emerging Adults
Background: Personality traits and relational processes play a crucial role in shaping romantic relationship outcomes during emerging adulthood. Narcissistic characteristics have been associated with interpersonal difficulties, whereas forgiveness has been identified as a protective factor that enhances relationship satisfaction. However, empirical evidence regarding their interrelationships, particularly within non-Western cultural contexts, remains limited.
Effects of Financial STEM Applications on Conceptual Understanding and Engagement in Higher Secondary Mathematics
The importance of STEM education and financial literacy in preparing students for obstacles they may face in the real world has grown. A promising way to improve students' conceptual understanding and engagement is to incorporate financial STEM applications into the higher secondary mathematics curriculum. This study examines the effects of financial STEM applications on higher secondary mathematics students' conceptual understanding. It also looks at how well these apps support learning from the viewpoints of teachers and students. A mixed-methods strategy was used. Student assessments and engagement surveys were used to collect quantitative data, and curriculum materials and published teacher interviews were analyzed to obtain qualitative insights. Math teachers and upper secondary students from different schools were included in the sample. According to preliminary research, students who are exposed to financial STEM applications show better comprehension of mathematical ideas, particularly those pertaining to exponential functions, percentages, and interest computations. Teachers' favorable opinions of the applicability and relevance of financial contexts in mathematics instruction contributed to an increase in student engagement levels. Mathematical comprehension and practical problem-solving are successfully connected through the use of financial STEM applications in the classroom. In order to improve student motivation and learning outcomes, the study advises educators and curriculum developers to include financial contexts.
Affective Populism and Democratic Contestation in Pakistan: A Comparative Study of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Imran Khan
This study examines the role of affective populism in shaping democratic contestation in Pakistan through a comparative analysis of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Imran Khan. It argues that populism in Pakistan is deeply rooted in emotional appeal rather than purely ideological positioning. Both leaders mobilized public support by invoking feelings of grievance, hope, pride, and anger against perceived elites. Bhutto’s populism emerged in a post-colonial and post- war context, where economic inequality and political exclusion created strong emotional currents among the masses. In contrast, Imran Khan’s populism developed in a media-driven and urbanized political environment, where narratives of corruption and moral decline played a central role. The study finds that affective populism has a dual impact on democracy in Pakistan. On one hand, it increases political participation and challenges entrenched elites. On the other hand, it weakens institutional trust and promotes polarization. By comparing two distinct political eras, this paper highlights how emotional narratives continue to shape democratic practices in Pakistan. The study contributes to the broader literature on populism by showing how affective politics operates in a developing democratic context.
Stylistic Analysis of the Short Story “The Kite” By Somerset Maugham
The research study conducts a detailed analysis of W. Somerset Maugham's short story "The Kite," examining its stylistic elements. The research study examines how narrative style and linguistic patterns create character development and thematic elements by combining traditional and modern linguistic frameworks, which include Leech and Short (2007), Zeki Hamawand (2023), the H.B. Model (2020), and the Billiard-Ball Model (2004). The research introduces its primary innovation through the development of a hybrid research approach, which combines RapidMiner Studio (Version 10.x) for precise lexical and grammatical analysis with GPT 3.5.9 for research on thematic content and non-linguistic aspects. The results show that Maugham creates a successful narrative through his precise use of formal and descriptive vocabulary, while the kite serves as the main symbol of personal liberation and the battle against family authority. The computational workflow achieved 90% accuracy, demonstrating that AI-driven tools yield greater objectivity and deeper analysis of literary works than conventional manual evaluation techniques.
Exploring Planning Criteria for School Establishment and Upgradation: A Case Study
This study is aimed to explore the planning criterion of schools’ establishment and up-gradation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. For the conduction of this research, qualitative case study design of research was adopted. All the administrative and managerial officials of elementary and secondary education department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa constituted the population of the study. For the collection of data, total of 15-respondents were purposively selected out of the research population and semi-structured interviews were conducted for the collection of data. The collected data was analyzed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that distance and accessibility, availability of feeder schools, adequate student enrollment, land availability, and sufficient infrastructure are the primary considerations for establishment and upgrading schools. From the findings of the study, it is concluded that there are proper planning criteria for the establishment and up-gradation of schools in elementary and secondary education department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. From the findings of the study, it is recommended that planning criteria may be relaxed for areas where there is dire need of educational infrastructure.
Evaluating the Impact of Cooperative Learning Strategies on the Development of Critical Thinking Skills Among Secondary School Students in Balochistan
The global educational landscape is increasingly shifting from passive rote memorization toward the cultivation of higher-order cognitive abilities. In Balochistan, Pakistan, this transition faces significant hurdles due to a traditional "banking model" of education, geographical isolation, high poverty rates, and deteriorating infrastructure. This paper evaluates the impact of cooperative learning (CL) strategies specifically the Jigsaw method, Student Teams–Achievement Divisions (STAD), and Think-Pair-Share (TPS) on the development of critical thinking skills among secondary school students. Drawing on social interdependence and cognitive development theories, the study explores how structured peer interaction fosters core skills such as analysis, evaluation, and self-regulation. Empirical evidence suggests that CL significantly outperforms traditional competitive structures, with innovative pedagogies showing a strong positive impact on critical thinking (beta = 0.536). Furthermore, the study highlights how cooperative environments facilitate "translanguaging," allowing students to use native dialects to bridge linguistic barriers and deepen conceptual understanding. Despite sociocultural resistance and systemic challenges, the implementation of CL, aligned with the Balochistan Education Sector Plan 2020-2025, offers a transformative pathway for enhancing student engagement, social cohesion, and academic achievement.
Toward Carbon Neutrality: An Empirical Analysis of CO2 Drivers on South Korea’s Carbon Emissions
This study investigates the determinants of CO2 emissions in South Korea, studying the potential impact of renewable energy, green technology innovations, population, energy usage and per capita income from 1990 to 2023. We analyzed annual time-series data using unit root test with breaks, a bootstrap ARDL cointegration, and Granger causation test under a STIRPAT framework to reach valid conclusion. The empirical results suggest the presence of long-run equilibrium relationship between the variables. Additionally, the findings demonstrate that green technology innovations and renewable technology reduced CO2 emissions, whereas energy usage, population growth and per capita income, contributed positively to the environmental degradation. The findings indicate the presence of bidirectional causality between CO2 emissions and all the key determinants. This implies that it is crucial to introduce and synchronize policies stimulating and continuing innovations in renewable energy and green technology, as well as mitigating the escalating energy demands and consumptions caused by an increase in population and per capita income. The findings of the current study contribute pertinent policy implementations for South Korea's planned policies in reaching carbon neutrality by the year 2050.
Determinants of Support for Federalism vs. Centralization: A Survey of Public Opinion in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)
A characteristic of the multi-ethnic democracies is the debate of federalism versus centralization in the discourse of governance. Constitutional provisions in Pakistan are nominal in support of federalism, yet the friction between provincial sovereignty and centralization still influences political rivalry, allocation of resources, and confidence of the electorate. This paper explores the determinants of popular support of publics in support of federal government versus centralized government structures by use of a cross-provincial survey among Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhaw (KP). The study employs a quantitative research design to assess the role of institutional trust, perceived governance performance, ethnic identity, fiscal preferences, and political awareness in shaping the attitudes of the citizens toward state structure, with 714 respondents as a sample. The results show a complex picture: the respondents in KP show more favorability to federalism because of historical needs to have autonomy on the provincial level, but the respondents in Punjab show a relatively higher degree of tolerance to the concept of centralization, which is highly explained by the views on the effectiveness of administration and the unity of the nation. The results of the regression analysis show that institutional trust and perceived provincial performance are the most important predictors of federalist attitudes, whereas security concerns and the expectation of economic performance are significant predictors of centralized authority preferences. The research has theoretical contributions by incorporating the Institutional Theory and the Rational Choice views to support the idea that citizens consider the governance arrangements based on the identity and performance factors. In practical terms, the results indicate the necessity of balanced policies of decentralization that should increase provincial ability without disrupting the national coordination. Finally, the study holds that the founding of sustainable federalism is more reliant not on the design of the constitution but on whether the people believe in the capacity of subnational authorities to provide quality governance.
The Hero’s Journey: A Comparative Study of Ancient and Modern Narratives
This is an exploration of how language constructs heroism in both ancient and modern stories through linguistic interpretation of the heroic path. With a discursive analysis that draws on Joseph Campbell's monomyth model, the paper draws a line between the image of Achilles in the Iliad and the character of Harry Potter across the Harry Potter genre. It highlights the importance of dialogue, stylistic elements, tonality, and lexical choices in elucidating the trials. These compasses of morals, religion, and change guided the protagonists across various historical periods. It has been found that ancient heroism is described through sublime, honourable conversations and predetermined motivations; contemporary heroism is described through introspective language, moral deliberations, and issues of social and cultural interaction. Achilles' diction focuses on honour, pleasure, and credibility, whereas Harry Potter's dialogue presupposes deliberations on moral issues, relationships, and personal development. Despite these differences, both heroes follow similar narrative patterns involving trials, moral quandaries, and developmental stages, thereby maintaining a sense of the ubiquity of the hero adventure. This study has a place in textual linguistics, as it explains the emergence of heroic identity in dialectic patterns rather than in isolated action. It focuses on how communicative techniques evolve across cultures without neglecting the classical structures of storytelling. Also, the paper highlights the importance of discourse in recontextualising traditional heroes in contemporary society and in shaping their ethical structures.
Linguistics Construction of Generational Conflict in Pakistani Television Drama: A Critical Discourse Analysis of the Parwarish Drama
Domestic dramas not only serve the purpose of entertainment, but they also mirror society. Pakistani drama Parwarish highlights societal tension and the generational and understanding gap between parents and Gen Z through dialogue and storytelling techniques. The present study of the drama serial Parwarish demonstrates a generational understanding gap through a close examination of parent-child interaction. Moreover, it pays attention to narrative techniques, especially to dialogue composition, which reflects cultural values, power, and conflict within the fabric of Pakistani society. This study uses Norman Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) framework using purposive sampling on selected episodes. This research analyse dialogues to differentiate authority marker, imperatives, pronouns, and rhetorical questions. On the other hand, the discursive level of analysis is to connect drama discourse to the immanent ideological and sociolect-cultural background. Conversely, parental discourse highlights the authority, respect, and obedience. These narrative techniques highlight the contrast of two different thought processes and portray how the clash between two generations is linguistically framed. The investigation illustrates that Parwarish reflects the Pakistani family’s everyday problems where usually modern generational values often disputes with conventional expectations, dramas such as Parwarish, not only reflect but constructs the societal reality perceptions and challenges the traditional norms. The findings of the study uncovers that Genz’s discourse focuses on individualism cooperation, vulnerability Conversely, parental discourse highlights the authority, respect, and obedience. It also point out media’s discourse role in building national identity and generational self-perception.
Teachers’ Perspectives on the Role of AI in Advancing Inclusive Pedagogy
This study explores teachers' perspectives on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing inclusive pedagogy. By examining the potential of AI to support diverse learners, reduce learning gaps, and enhance instructional differentiation, the research highlights both the promise and the challenges of AI integration in inclusive classrooms. The study surveys 200 teachers, analyzing their experiences with AI tools, access to resources, professional development, and ethical concerns. Findings suggest that while many teachers see the benefits of AI in fostering inclusive learning environments, significant barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, time constraints, and insufficient training limit its widespread adoption. The study emphasizes the need for targeted professional development, improved access to technology, and clear ethical guidelines to ensure AI’s successful integration into inclusive educational settings. The results offer valuable insights for policymakers and educators looking to harness AI’s potential to support all learners, particularly those with disabilities.
Exploring the Jungian Shadow in Monica Ali’s Brick Lane: Uncovering the Repressed Facets of Nazneen’s Personality
This research paper examines the psychological growth of Nazneen, the protagonist of Monica Ali in her book, Brick Lane (2003) with the theory of analytical psychology by Carl Jung with a more specific reference on the relationship between the Persona and the Shadow. This research will contribute to understanding how the repressed desires, specification of individuality, and the impact of socio-cultural pressures on the choices, actions, and the changing sense of self bring Nazneen to her decisions. The qualitative research was chosen and thematic analysis according to the reflexive model by Braun and Clarke (2006) was conducted to provide systematic identification and interpretation of recurrent patterns of the Shadow in the personality of Nazneen. Through the analysis, it can be seen that her process of self-knownness encompasses living and accepting the repressed natures, latent desires and emotional theatrics which was bound by the family, culture and even the patriarchal demands. Individuation can help Nazneen to address internalized conflicts, assert her own independence and be able to create a unified and genuine self. The results emphasize that the Shadow does not serve as a pure source of bad and should not be seen as such but instead as a source of strength, agency, and psychological development. Through the Jungian theory of literary analysis, the present study highlights the importance of unconscious forces in the character development, the diasporic female self, and how societal rules affect and transform the character. The study adds to the larger conversation about literature and psychology by showing how fiction can help to understand intricate self-realization and individuation.
Mental Illness in Young Adult Fiction: A Thematic Survey
The paper will presents a thematic survey of the representation of mental health in five canonical young-adult (YA) novels and across 1951-2012, including: J.D. Salingers, The Catcher in the Rye, Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Jay Asher, Thirteen Reasons Why, Rainbow Rowell, Eleanor and Park, and John Green, The Fault in Our Stars. The use of a qualitative thematic analysis informed by the principles of Narrative Therapy (White, 1990) prefigures the use of the theme of depression as the most important thread throughout all texts characterized by overwhelming isolation, loss, and affectiveness typified in rejecting phonies in Holden Caulfield, the hidden trauma in correspondence in Charlie, and despair in Hannah Baker illustrated in her final tapes. Anxiety, in its turn, is prominently present in the family- and identity-related conflicts in the book of Eleanor and Park. In contrast, suicidal thoughts are accentuated in the book Thirteen Reasons Why and the terminal illness settings of The Fault in Our Stars. Loneliness recurs as an underlying current, often fuelled by social exclusion or family conflict; some of the stories, especially Holden's rebellious invincibility or Hannah's accusatory blame-shifting, unintentionally romanticize the journeys of recovery and may overshadow the practical way out. The old classics like The Catcher in the Rye are languishing in excruciating agony with no apparent resolution, where struggles with mental health are seen as inherent to the adolescent experience, and complete healing trajectories are understudied and are simplistically summarized. However, communication with the suffering, like that between Eleanor and Park, is nurturing and can offer a sliver of hope. This development reflects broader YA trends, given its adoption of research gaps identified in previous studies, which list a series of themes devoid of historical transformation and impact on readers, including a study by Lee (2023) that revealed that such books prompt teenagers to talk about anxiety and family stress.
The Jungian Persona and Social Conformity in Brick Lane: A Study of Nazneen’s Masked Self
This paper discusses the Jungian Persona in Brick Lane (2003) by Monica Ali in relation to a main character, Nazneen, arguing about how she negotiates socially assigned identity in diasporic, cultural, and patriarchal structures. A qualitative research is conducted based on the principles of a reflexive thematic analysis created by Braun and Clarke (2006) to analyze the way the externally conforming Persona of Nazneen plays with her repressed desires, her blocked individuality, and her hidden psychological needs. The work analyzes the role of a conflict between the socially constructed mask and the inner impulses in her psychological evolution, choice-making process, and new personality based on Jungian theories of the analytical psychology, especially Persona and individuation (Jung, 1951; 1967). These results can be interpreted as the Persona serves as both a defense system and the battleground in Nazneen: on the one hand, this role enables her to resolve the demands of the society and her family members, yet, on the other hand, it hides the elements of her true self. Throughout the story, the communication process, self-awareness, and mild affirmation of independence help her align the external roles with her internal desires, which is the Jungian individuation process. This incorporation motivates her to become a truer and more unique figure. Emphasizing the interactions between social conformity, masked selfhood, and mental development, this study enriches the field of literature and psychology, as it displays how the Jungian theory offers a subtle structure of exploration of identity and agency development in the central female figures of the diaspora.
Bots and Thoughts Exploring Language Use, Pragmatic Competence, and Ethical Challenges in AI-Based Communication Systems
How does language shape thought, and what happens when language itself is generated by machines? This question has become increasingly urgent in the age of artificial intelligence–mediated communication. Recent reports suggest that generative AI tools are now used by hundreds of millions of people globally, reshaping how individuals write emails, produce academic texts, and interact in digital spaces (Dwivedi et al., 2023). Indeed, the rapid adoption of systems such as ChatGPT and other large language models demonstrates that machine-generated discourse is no longer peripheral but central to everyday communication. As Noam Chomsky argues, the human capacity for language is closely tied to the human capacity for thought, raising a critical question about whether AI-generated language truly reflects pragmatic understanding or merely statistical prediction (Chomsky et al., 2023). Consequently, the increasing reliance on AI-generated discourse has intensified scholarly interest in how such systems influence language use, pragmatic competence, and ethical communication practices.
This paper explores the changing scenario of law, society, and general policy in view of the changing world such as the geopolitical tensions, the disruption of technology, and the increasing social disparity. It addresses the way legal structures shape the agenda of policy, at the same time being influenced by the social dynamics in the society such as political mobilizations, identity politics, and social justice movements. The study centers on the conflicts of national sovereignty with international law, the global institutions and how they impact domestic policymaking and the social consequences of legal motifs. The paper ends with policy recommendations to assist governments develop more just and receptive government policy in an international environment that is evolving at a very rapid pace.
Strategic Learning, Belief Updating, and Equilibrium Selection in Repeated Coordination Games: Experimental and Theoretical Evidence
Coordination games with multiple Nash equilibria pose a fundamental challenge for equilibrium selection in strategic interaction. This review integrates theoretical frameworks and experimental evidence to examine how players resolve strategic uncertainty in repeated coordination settings through learning dynamics, belief updating, and equilibrium selection criteria. Central concepts include payoff dominance versus risk dominance , basins of attraction, stochastic stability, and the role of risk attitudes in tipping dynamics. Experimental findings consistently show that payoff-dominant equilibria are frequently abandoned when coordination risk is high, while risk-dominant outcomes prevail under uncertainty or limited information. Learning models reinforcement learning, fictitious play, Bayesian updating, and level-k reasoning reveal path-dependent convergence patterns, with history, framing, communication, and payoff asymmetry influencing long-run selection. Recent studies highlight the importance of local interaction effects, network structure, and cognitive heuristics in accelerating or hindering convergence to efficient equilibria. The synthesis underscores that equilibrium selection is rarely purely rational but emerges from adaptive processes shaped by psychological, social, and environmental factors, offering insights for mechanism design, policy coordination, and multi-agent AI systems.
Self-Sabotaging Tendencies and Their Impact on Students’ Mental Health: A Study on the Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy
In today’s highly competitive academic setting, university students are increasingly vulnerable to developing self-sabotaging tendencies, which can have a harmful impact on their mental health. This study explores the relationship between self-sabotaging tendencies and mental health among university students, with particular emphasis on the mediating role of self-efficacy. Data were collected from 600 students using a convenience sampling technique. Mental health was assessed using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), self-sabotaging tendencies were measured through the Self-Sabotage Assessment Questionnaire (SSAQ), and self-efficacy was evaluated using the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE). The results demonstrated a significant negative correlation between self-sabotaging tendencies and mental health, suggesting that greater self-sabotage is linked to poorer psychological well-being. Mediation analysis further revealed that self-efficacy partially explains this relationship. These results highlight how crucial it is to implement interventions that lower self-destructive behaviors and boost self-efficacy in order to improve students' mental health and general wellbeing. The study offers practical implications for supporting students in competitive academic settings.
Negotiating Cultural Identities: Sociolinguistic Analysis of English Use among Pakistani University Level ESL Learners
The current qualitative case study explores the theme of negotiation of cultural, academic, and professional identities by Pakistani ESL students in BS English classes at Superior University in an English-Medium Instruction (EMI) context. Based on sociolinguistic identity theory, a notion of investment presented by Norton and the theory of translanguaging, the study position sees identity as dynamic, interactive, and the result of classroom talk. The main aim was to test the ways in which students utilize English and multilingual resources to place themselves in institutional and peer hierarchies and how the norms of EMI determine their linguistic investment. The data were gathered by only non-participant observations in the classroom in several BS English classes including about 20-25 undergraduate students with diverse schooling backgrounds. The thematic analysis and interactional discourse analysis were used to analyze the data to determine the patterns of stance-taking, code-switching, positioning of the identity, and alignment of power. Results indicate that English is a symbolic capital in the aspect of academic legitimacy, professional aspiration and institutional authority and Urdu is a resource of cultural authenticity, peer solidarity, and emotional expression. Students would have a balance between the two languages strategically in order to cope with the risks and opportunities of identity. The paper demonstrates the interplay between the power, language, and belonging in Pakistani higher education.
The Iran Israel Conflict: Geopolitical Shifts and Security Dilemmas in the Middle East
This study investigates the Iran-Israel conflict from 2016 to 2026, focusing on its impact on regional security, military expenditures, economic stability, and humanitarian outcomes. Through a quantitative analysis, the research explores the escalation of hostilities between Iran and Israel and its broader consequences for the Middle East and global geopolitics. The study addresses the shifting geopolitical alliances, particularly the growing cooperation between Israel and Arab Gulf states, as well as Iran's increasing influence in Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon. It also examines military expenditure trends, showing how both nations have increased their defense budgets in response to perceived threats. The research further analyzes the correlation between conflict events and fluctuations in global oil prices, particularly disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Civilian casualties and humanitarian crises resulting from military operations and proxy warfare are also examined. The findings confirm that increased conflict incidents lead to heightened military spending, volatility in oil prices, and escalating civilian casualties. This study offers valuable insights into the tangible impacts of the Iran-Israel conflict, contributing to the growing body of literature on conflict economics, regional security, and the global consequences of prolonged geopolitical instability.
Proverbs as Metaphorical Maps: A Comparative Analysis of Traditional and AI-Generated Discourse
This paper is thoroughly based on the comparative analysis of traditional proverbs and AI generated proverbs to find out whether using artificial intelligence can in any way mimic the metaphorical, cultural, and cognitive richness involved in human proverbs. Proverbs are brief cultural items containing generations of wisdom, values, and moral teachings expressed as metaphorical mappings that are intrinsically well experienced. Thanks to the development of Natural Language Processing (NLP), models like GPT-3 and GPT-4 have been shown to have exceptional ability to result in coherent and human-like texts, which makes it difficult to believe that such systems are capable of producing culturally resonant proverbs. This study is based on the conceptual metaphor theory (CMT) and cognitive linguistics and explores the role of metaphors in understanding abstract concepts and facilitating the transmission of cultures. The study objectives are presented by defining various underlying conceptual metaphors in both traditional and AI-generated proverbs and to make comparisons between cultural and cognitive patterns expressed in them. A qualitative comparative study will show that AI can replicate the structural and linguistic characteristics of proverbs but does not easily replicate the emotional undertones, cultural internalization, and sense of experience that proverbs have. Traditional proverbs are known to do not only pass moral direction and societal standards, but also create cohesiveness, strength and generational identity. On the other hand, AI generated proverbs lack the contextual grounding which is a matter of statistics not of the lived realities. The results point to the possibilities and constraints of AI in the generation of cultural texts and that human wisdom cannot be replaced in the meaning-making process. This work can be discussed as making a contribution to the interdisciplinary contribution to the field of linguistics, cognitive science, and etc. AI ethics because it argues that technology indeed is not able to capture the essence of cultural wisdom.
Factors Affecting Arousal and Impulse Buying: The Moderating Effect of Online Campaigns in the Clothing Industry
Drawing on the Stimulus Organism Response model, this research investigates the primary factors affecting the impulse purchasing of clothing among the Generation Z in the clothing shops across Pakistan. Primary data was collected from 255 respondents and analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling to thoroughly evaluate the measurement and the structural models. The results reveal that time limitations and quantity limitations have considerable knowledge effect on the emotional arousal of consumers. On the other hand, the product recommendation has a negative and reinforcing statistically significant effect on the excitation. Furthermore, arousal is one of the key determinants of impulse buying and online campaigns are a perfect tool to moderate this relationship by increasing the role of arousal on the spontaneous buying behavior. Demonstrating good explanatory power, this research gives important theoretical and managerial insights for optimizing digital commerce strategies in emerging markets.
Why Teachers Do Not Teach for Understanding: The Washback Effects of SSC Exams on Pedagogical Practices of Teachers in Sargodha
High-stakes examinations exert a powerful influence on classroom instruction, particularly in developing-country contexts where public assessments dominate educational culture. This qualitative case study investigates the washback effect of the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations administered by the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE), Sargodha, on the pedagogical practices of secondary school teachers. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with five teachers and six students from a government high school in District Sargodha and through the systematic analysis of five years of SSC examination papers using Bloom's Taxonomy revised framework. Findings reveal that between 88% and 92% of examination questions target only the knowledge (recall) level of Bloom's Taxonomy, with negligible representation of higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) such as analysis, synthesis, or evaluation. Consequently, teachers adopt examination-oriented pedagogical methods centred on rote memorisation, repeated practice of past papers, and guidebook dependency, all of which foreclose meaningful language development. Students similarly prioritise memorised answers over communicative competence. The study concludes that the SSC examination generates strong negative washback and recommends systemic assessment reform encompassing formative assessment, performance-based tasks, and higher-order thinking questions to restore pedagogical quality and promote positive washback.
Morphological Errors in Written English of Primary School Students of Class Four and Five an Empirical Educational Analysis
This paper examines morphological mistakes in written English of students in Class Four and Class Five of primary school via an empirical study of the education field. Morphology, which is an important aspect of linguistic competence, is very essential in shaping writing skills of students but learners in primary level tend to have a problem with correct word form and structure. Basing on the theoretical framework of morphological awareness and error analysis, the research would determine the types of errors, how common they are, and the factors of education that led to such errors. The mixed methods design was followed by analyzing documents that were prepared as test papers and then handing them over to a purposive sample of 100 students comprising of 50 in Class Four and 50 in Class Five. The analysis of data was done in terms of frequency counts, percentage analysis, and thematic interpretation. The results have shown that the inflectional, tense, and derivational errors are the most frequent and Class Four students made more mistakes compared to Class Five. The findings reveal the effect of instructional policies, inadequate morphological awareness and first language interference on the performance of the students. The paper indicates that there should be clear morphological teaching to enhance writing skills.
Resistance and Voice: Colonial Silencing and Postcolonial Reclamation in “Heart of Darkness” and “Things Fall Apart”
This paper comparatively erodes Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness and Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart to interrogate the transformation from colonial subjugation to postcolonial restoration of experiences. Particularly the impressions of illustration, subalternity, and treatise, the work employs qualitative comparative textual analysis to delve into how narrative supremacy shapes African identity in accordance to postcolonial theory. The study revolves around the dehumanization of Africans subjectivity due to enslavement of expansionism. Conversely, Things Fall Apart retrieves cultural supremacy by centering African conceptions, incorporating oral traditions, and reconfiguring narrative structure. The occurrences contribute to postcolonial scholarship by integrating narratological analysis with ideological critique in a contrastive framework.
The Influence of Psychological Strengths, Coping Strategies, And Overall Well-Being in Predicting Academic Engagement and Burnout Among Undergraduate Private University Students Lahore Punjab
Positive psychological attributes, such as mindfulness, grit, and adaptability, have been increasingly recognized for their role in promoting mental health and academic success among students. However, the extent to which these traits influence emotional stability and protect against academic burnout remains understudied, particularly in undergraduate populations. This cross-sectional study aimed to address a gap in literature by examining the impact of positive psychological attributes on emotional stability, and academic burnout among undergraduate students. A sample of 275 undergraduate students from various disciplines across two public and two private universities in Lahore, Pakistan, completed validated self-report questionnaire. Data were analyzed employing descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Study findings showed that positive psychological attributes has significant associations with higher emotional stability and lower levels of academic burnout. Specifically, mindfulness and grit emerged as the strongest predictors of reduced academic burnout. Additionally, emotional stability partially mediated the relationship between positive psychological traits and academic burnout, highlighting its critical role in student well-being. These findings not only enrich the theoretical understanding of psychological resilience in academic contexts but also offer practical implications. Specifically, they suggest that enhancing emotional stability could be an effective strategy to reduce academic burnout and improve students’ sense of personal accomplishment. These insights hold implications for educational policies and mental health promotion programs in higher education settings.
Institutional Readiness for Sustainable Start-up Incubation: Evidence from a Public Technical Training Institute in The Gambia
This study examines the determinants of institutional readiness for sustainable start-up incubation within a public technical training institute in The Gambia. While existing literature has largely focused on incubation outcomes, limited attention has been given to the internal institutional capacities that enable effective and sustainable incubation systems, particularly in developing economies. Drawing on the Resource-Based View (RBV), this study conceptualizes institutional readiness as a multidimensional construct and investigates how different domains of institutional support influence corresponding adequacy outcomes. The study employs a quantitative cross-sectional design using primary data collected from 117 staff members of a public technical training institution. A series of Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression models are estimated to examine the relationship between institutional support dimensions capital, resources, technical machinery, infrastructure, facilities and utilities, services, and space/land and institutional adequacy across corresponding domains. The findings provide strong empirical support for the proposed hypotheses, indicating that institutional support significantly enhances readiness for sustainable incubation across all domains. However, the results reveal important variations in the strength of these relationships. Space and land support and service support emerge as the most influential determinants, highlighting the critical role of physical infrastructure and service delivery systems in incubation effectiveness. In contrast, capital support, although significant, exhibits relatively weaker explanatory power, suggesting that financial resources alone are insufficient to ensure institutional readiness. The study contributes to the literature by introducing an institutional readiness perspective to business incubation and provides new empirical evidence from a low-income African context. The findings offer important policy implications for strengthening incubation systems within technical training institutions and promoting sustainable entrepreneurship development.
Presence of Quartz Dust in Jewelry Workshops Around Islamabad, Rawalpindi and its Health Impacts on Lungs
The study investigated airborne particulate matter in the jewelry workshops of Islamabad, and Rawalpindi focusing on quartz and potentially toxic elements to assess respiratory health impacts among workers. Five jewelry workshops were selected two (A, B) in F-7 and three (C, D, E) in Sarafa bazar, Rawalpindi. Human and environmental PM samples were collected. Analysis of PM 2.5 in pm 10 revealed elevated levels of elements majorly Cd, Silica, and slightly high Ni, Pb, Ba, and Ag exceeding safe exposure limits. SEM imaging showed PM 10 particles as elongated rod like structures predominantly composed of Fe and silica followed by Ca, O, Al, and K. Ca based compounds including calcium carbonate and oxides were identified as raw materials from jewelry manufacturing processes like casting, ceramics, abrasives, and polishing. Additionally, workshops showed peaks of Si, C, Ca, O Zn, Cu, Al, and K indicating the presence of silicates, concretes, ceramics and glass particles which may form rods during aerosolization. The survey found that employees in all five workplaces had worsened respiratory issues, affecting their health and well-being. The survey indicated 65% of workers had frequent respiratory difficulties including cough (65%), phlegm (50%), breathlessness (67%), and wheeze (55%). Workers with a mean BMI of 25.26 ± 10.38 were classified overweight. The highest Exposure Concentration values were found for Fe, Mg, Sr, and silica. Certain workshops (A, B, D, E) had surpassed LTCR values for Si and Cr. The highest EC for non-carcinogenic metals were found for Mg, Fe, and Sr, indicating health hazards from prolonged exposure. Zn, Cu, and Fe had the greatest PM10 EDI (mg/kg). Workshops C, D, and E, had the most Zn intake, while A, B, and D had the most Fe and Cu intake. Workshop A exhibited high EDI levels for Zn, Si, Fe, and Cu. Ba and Si had the highest PM 2.5 intake values in all workshops, with Zn on top. Workshop C had the most Zn take. In all five workshops, Pb, Cd, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ba HQ surpassed the limit. However, the HQ of Cd, Pb, exceeded in just one of the workshops (A and E). The HQ of Si, Cu, Ni, and Cr was under the acceptable level. Pulmonary function test (PFT) demonstrated substantial decline in parameters such as FVC, FEV1 and the PEF, especially among smokers with statistically significant correlation showing higher elemental concentration in PM negatively impacting lungs capacity. The finding suggested regular exposure to high concentration of toxic elements in aerosolized particles poses serious health risks to workers notably impairing respiratory functions and increasing potential long term health hazards.
Impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence (ChatGPT) on Students’ Critical Thinking Skills and Academic Integrity in Higher Education
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, are increasingly integrated into higher education. While these tools offer convenience and learning support, concerns exist regarding their impact on students’ critical thinking skills and academic integrity. This study investigates the influence of ChatGPT usage on university students’ cognitive and ethical outcomes, focusing on critical thinking and adherence to academic integrity. A quantitative research design was employed, surveying 250 undergraduate and postgraduate students. Data were collected using a structured Likert-scale questionnaire covering ChatGPT usage, critical thinking, and academic integrity. Reliability was confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha, and analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and comparative analyses using SPSS and R software. Findings indicate that most students engage moderately with ChatGPT. Critical thinking skills were moderately developed, whereas academic integrity remained high overall. Regression analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between ChatGPT usage and both critical thinking (β = -0.32) and academic integrity (β = -0.28). Comparative analyses showed no significant differences across gender or academic level. While ChatGPT can enhance learning efficiency, excessive reliance may adversely affect cognitive and ethical outcomes. Educators and institutions should implement structured guidelines, AI literacy programs, and pedagogical strategies to promote responsible usage.
Framing Climate Change in Pakistani Newspapers: A Comparative Study of Dawn and The News (Jan–Aug 2025)
The research is mainly qualitative; simple frequency data and percentages were employed to support the analysis, providing it with a mixed-method nature and qualitative content analysis to examine how two of the leading English-language newspapers in Pakistan, Dawn and The News International, covered climate change over a more active period between January and August 2025. The results indicate that there was a great dependency on the Scientific/Environmental narrative that explained almost 70 per cent of the articles reviewed. Such coverage concentrated a lot on the effects, scientific reasons, as well as environmental hazards of climatic events. The second most common (approximately 24 per cent) were political narratives, which generally focused on government action, a policy debate or institutional obligation. It is important to note that the coverage had virtually no religious framing. Regarding individual dimensions of framing, the Economic Consequences and Human Interest dimensions were used most often, with 1/3 of the total articles being used in the newspapers. Such a high focus reveals that the media focused on the financial expenses and human suffering due to climate change. The next frame was the Responsibility Attribution, where in approximately 20% of the stories this occurred, and the last frame was the Conflict frame, which occurred in approximately 7% of the stories. Comparative analysis showed that the editorial variations were that Dawn covered more context-driven, policy-focused and more detailed stories, as it is perceived as the oldest national newspaper in the country. The News International, which is one of the major privately owned newspapers, favoured brief reporting that was more event-based. Irrespective of these differences, the general media strategy was reactive. The coverage during crises was high, but did not sustain an active, proactive, and solution-based discussion, which validates previous sources that indicate that the Pakistani media has serious weaknesses in the approach to dealing with this vital matter. When it comes to coverage of climate change, framing is what defines whether the problem is framed as a scientific problem, a political issue and an environmental crisis. In this research article, the framing theory is implemented to evaluate the coverage of climate change in the newspapers like Dawn and the News international and the dominant frames in their coverage. The insufficient focus on the adaptation, mitigation and solution-focused journalism highlights the necessity to have more robust, coherent, and scientifically based climate coverage to enhance national resilience.
Analyzing Development of eSport in Pakistan with a Political Economy Approach
This paper discusses the emergence of eSports in Pakistan as a case of political economy, the way cultural attitudes relate to changing government policies. Instead of considering these aspects individual or constant we emphasize the ways these aspects impact one another through a time-based process that is complex and tends to be quite cyclic. The study outlines some of those defining points where cultural opposition and the inactivity of policy have mutually supported one another, stalling the expansion of the eSports industry. The study illuminates the question of how and when change is possible, by analyzing historical patterns and systemic barriers. The results can provide stakeholders with useful information when trying to promote the digital gaming ecosystem in Pakistan, as timing, coordination, and context-specific interventions are important. The work is part of a larger picture on how the relations of social norms and state structures in developing countries can influence the formation of emergent industries.
Developing a Sustainable Business Model Framework for E-Waste Management in Emerging Economies: Evidence from Malaysia
Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, driven by rap-id technological change, shorter product life cycles, and increasing demand for electrical and electronic equipment. In emerging economies, the problem is intensified by fragmented col-lection systems, incomplete reverse logistics, uneven regulatory enforcement, and the contin-ued dominance of informal recovery practices. Although previous studies have examined e-waste from technological, environmental, and policy perspectives, limited attention has been given to the business-model conditions required for formal e-waste enterprises to become eco-nomically viable and environmentally effective. This paper addresses that gap by developing a sustainable business model framework for e-waste management in emerging economies, using qualitative evidence from Malaysia. The study adopts an exploratory qualitative design in-formed by stakeholder interviews, industry observations, documentary review, and strategic synthesis through thematic analysis and SWOT interpretation. The findings show that sustain-able e-waste enterprises are shaped by five interdependent dimensions: regulatory alignment, collection and reverse logistics design, circular value recovery, partnership architecture, and diversified revenue logic. Based on these findings, the paper proposes a framework that con-nects circular economy principles with the operational realities of e-waste enterprise devel-opment in resource-constrained settings. The paper contributes to the literature by shifting attention from policy and recycling technologies alone to business model innovation as a cen-tral mechanism for sustainability transition. The framework also offers practical guidance for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors seeking to strengthen formal e-waste systems in emerging economies.
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Deen Versus Secular Order: Islam's Discursive Challenge to Western-Dominated Global Politics
The encounter between Islam and the West is frequently reduced to security threats, political violence, or the simplistic notion of a "clash of civilizations." While dominant, these frameworks obscure a more profound dimension: a deep-seated discursive struggle between two competing worldviews over the very foundations of a legitimate human order. Drawing on Dr. Hanna Pfeifer's work on discursive struggles and Islamist engagement with global politics, this paper argues that the contemporary contest over world order is shaped not merely by material power but by rival claims to meaning, authority, and the proper structure of existence. At the heart of this divergence lies a fundamental opposition. The modern Western secular order operates within a compartmentalized framework that confines religion to the private sphere, separating it from governance and law. In contrast, Islam—understood as deen, a complete way of life—presents a holistic and divinely grounded system that integrates all dimensions of existence into a unified whole. This paper contends that this is not simply a religious objection to secularism but the articulation of a coherent discursive counter-narrative challenging the presumed universality of the Western model. By examining three contested concepts—justice (Adl), sovereignty (Hakimiyyah), and modernity (Hadathah)—the analysis reveals how Islam offers distinct definitions that contest Western liberal assumptions, constructing an alternative framework rooted in divine authority. Drawing upon constructivist and post-structuralist International Relations theory, this study demonstrates that recognizing Islam's comprehensive vision as a legitimate discursive alternative is essential for moving beyond reductionist portrayals of Islam-West relations. Such recognition opens the door to genuine intellectual engagement, unsettling the assumption that the Western secular model is universally applicable or inherently superior, and inviting a more nuanced conversation about the future of global order.
Transformational Leadership Practices of School Principals and Their Impact on Teacher Organizational Commitment and Institutional Performance
Transformational leadership by school principals has emerged as a pivotal driver of educational improvement in an era marked by technological disruption, accountability pressures, and post-pandemic recovery challenges. This review synthesizes global empirical evidence on how principals’ transformational practices idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration influence teacher organizational commitment and overall institutional performance. Drawing primarily on Leithwood’s adapted framework, the analysis demonstrates that setting directions (vision-building, goal alignment), developing people (individualized support, intellectual stimulation), and redesigning the organization (collaborative culture, shared decision-making) significantly enhance teachers’ affective, normative, and continuance commitment. These psychological mechanisms, in turn, mediate improvements in key performance indicators, including student achievement, teacher retention, instructional quality, collective efficacy, and innovation adoption. Cross-cultural studies reveal consistent positive effects across Western and Asian contexts, though moderated by cultural dimensions such as power distance and collectivism. Evidence from meta-analyses and longitudinal designs indicates effect sizes ranging from moderate to large (r = 0.35–0.65) for commitment and performance outcomes. The review underscores the necessity of moving beyond transactional management toward visionary, people-centered leadership to foster resilient, high-performing school ecosystems amid accelerating change.
Academic Procrastination among Postgraduate Students: Causes, Consequences, and Coping Patterns at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad
Academic procrastination is a common issue to postgraduate students and presents severe obstacles to academic performance and mental health. The paper examined the rate, the causes, and the effects of academic procrastination in postgraduate students at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. The quantitative cross-sectional research design was used. The sample population was represented by 5,002 M. Phil and MS students, out of which 146 respondents were sampled through a convenience sampling method at a 95% level of confidence and at 8 percent level of confidence. The structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data based on the demographic factors, procrastination habits, the causes of the habit, and the perceived academic and emotional consequences. The data collected were evaluated through Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) and through descriptive statistics, frequency, percentages, means, standard deviations and ranking by use of weighted scores. These results showed that in completing tasks with minimal time (M = 2.58), lack of concentration (M = 2.55), absence of internet in homes (M = 2.52), and lack of motivation (M = 2.45) were the significant reasons why people procrastinate. Even though the majority of students implied moderate agreement to procrastination-related statements, time management problems and environmental influences were the most influential ones. Regarding consequences, the most common academic outcomes mentioned were failure in a subject because of procrastination (M=1.93) and course dropping (M=1.75), and it was also clear that stress and lowered academic performance caused by procrastination. Students stated that they experienced negative emotions, especially frustration and anxiety (M = 2.92) and that they felt that overall well-being was negatively affected (M = 1.68). In addition, the level of procrastination in exam preparation was also a critical aspect as most students were somewhat unprepared (M = 2.51). It is concluded in the study that the levels of academic procrastination among postgraduate students is moderate with a significant emotional and academic cost to the student. The findings reveal the time-management training, academic guidance, motivational support, and better digital access as the urgent needs that would help eliminate procrastination and improve the performance of students. The results of these findings can be very beneficial to the university administrators, counselors, and educators to be able to develop effective intervention strategies to be used with postgraduate learners.