ACADEMIA International Journal for Social Sciences
ACADEMIA International Journal for Social Sciences (AIJSS) - HEC recognized Y Category Journal, the premier journal for academics, researchers, and enthusiasts that focus the subjects but not limit the fields of Archeology, Anthropology, Archival Studies, Economics, Econometrics, English Literature, Disaster Management, Accounting, Political Science, Public Administration, Defense and Strategic studies, International Relations, Management Science, Marketing, HR, Agriculture, Psychology including clinical, Industrial, and Developmental Psychology, Criminology, Philosophy, Sociology, Iqbal Studies/Iqbaliyat, Rural Development Studies, Social Work, Criminology, Library and Information Sciences, History, Demography and Population Studies, Ethnography, Conservation Studies, Religious Studies / Comparative Religion, Islamic Studies / Arabic Studies, Education, Special Education, Law and Legislature, Home Economics, Pakistan Studies, Peace & Conflict Studies, Behavioral Sciences, Women and Gender Studies, American /studies, Area Studies, Development Studies, Journalism, Mass Communication, Media Studies, Rural / Urban Studies, Women Studies. Announcement: Change in Publication Frequency Following the recommendation of the Editorial Board, we are pleased to announce that the journal has transitioned to a monthly publication schedule which was previously publishing on a quarterly basis. Effective from Oct, 2025 the journal will now publish monthly issues. This decision reflects our commitment to providing timely dissemination of high-quality research and to accommodating the growing volume of scholarly submissions. We thank our authors, reviewers, and readers for their continued support and look forward to serving the academic community with more frequent and impactful publications.
The Imperative of Foreign Policy in Pakistan's Strategic Landscape: A Review
Foreign policy of Pakistan guides as the foundation of its fiscal existence and state safety, local control in a tough universal command. This paper argues that foreign policy of Pakistan has amendment from global relations to planned pragmatism, underscoring monetary peacekeeping while maintaining refuge alliances. This review shows the importance of foreign policy of Pakistan, studying how deliberate trade development and unlimited power and strength profile Islamabad’s international relation path. The review consisting strategic maintaining between the People’s Republic of China and the United States of America, local dreamland concerns and the mixture of geo-economics significance’s throw project of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Copyright (c) 2026 Raj Kumar, Kosheela Bheel (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Phytochemical Evaluation of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Psoralea Corylifolia L. (Fabaceae) in Sindh, Pakistan
The present study focuses on the fatty acid structure and composition of seed extracts from Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and Psoralea corylifolia L. two medicinally important members of the family Fabaceae, collected from local market of Hyderabad Sindh Pakistan. The seeds were subjected to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for the qualitative and quantitative identification of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Psoralea 1 saturated and 16 unsaturated fatty acids and Psoralea corylifolia L., 11saturated and 13 unsaturated fatty acids were analyzed. The analysis revealed the presence of several bioactive fatty acids known for their nutritional and therapeutic value. This study provides detailed information on the fatty acid profile and medicinal significance of these plants, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in phytochemical and pharmacological research. The results highlight the potential use of these plants in drug development, nutraceutical formulations and herbal medicine particularly in developing regions where traditional plant-based remedies form a major component of primary healthcare and the pharmacological importance and traditional uses of T. foenum-graecum and P. corylifolia, this study was considered to isolate and identify saturated and unsaturated fatty acids present in the seeds of both species collected from Sindh, Pakistan Utilize gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for accurate detection and characterization of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs).Compare and evaluate the fatty acid profiles of both species to calculate their pharmacological relevance and nutritional potential.
Copyright (c) 2026 S. K. Khanzada, A. K. Khanzada, S. Memon, M. S. Bilal, I. A. Bhurt (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Operationalizing Cognitive Load Theory for Students with Learning Disabilities: A Phase-Based Instructional Design Framework
Students with learning disabilities (LD) often struggle in reading, writing, and mathematics. A large part of this struggle comes from how they process information; specifically, the limits of their working memory (WM). When instruction does not account for these limits, learning breaks down, regardless of how skilled the teacher is. Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) explains why this happens. It describes three types of cognitive load which effect learning: intrinsic load (task complexity), extraneous load (poor design), and germane load (the effort that builds real understanding). CLT has influenced many teaching strategies, but it has rarely been developed into a structured, step-by-step process; especially for LD students. This article addresses that gap. It presents a phase-based instructional design framework that translates CLT into three actionable phases: managing intrinsic load, reducing extraneous load, and fostering germane load. Unlike prior applications of CLT, this framework introduces a novel element: a cognitive load audit step embedded within each phase that prompts designers to explicitly check load conditions before moving forward. This makes the process systematic rather than intuitive. The framework is grounded in both CLT and research on cognitive processing in LD students. It is adaptable across subjects and age groups, and it is designed to be used by researchers, intervention designers, and classroom teachers alike. The article also presents testable propositions and discusses implications for future research and practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mehtab Hussain (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Blades of Faith and Beauty: Symbolism and Ornamentation on Daggers and Arms in the Islamic Heritage of the Pakistan Region
This paper will explore the development of Islamic weapons in Pakistan, 16th -19th centuries, but with a different perspective; it does not consider the weapons as mere tools of war; it views them as vessels of "faith and beauty" which are well-developed. Though traditional scholarship has tended to group South Asian weapons by some broad terms like Islamic or Indian, in this study, the approach taken is to be localised to determine the specific martial identity of the Indus Valley. Through the application of Art and Design theoretical framework, the methodology incorporates a formal analysis, materiality and semiotics in decoding the structural and symbolic layers of daggers and swords. The major discoveries indicate that the decoration of these blades of faith was a two-fold purpose: as spiritual protection where Quranic writings (e.g. the Throne Verse) and mystical signs of the Seal of Solomon were inscribed and also serving as symbols of the imperial status in the Mughal Mansabdari system, jewelled daggers were granted as a symbol of royal patronage. In addition the paper also determines the regional peculiarities e.g., the Sindh matchlock and tracks the artisanal persistence of metallurgical skills in historical gateways, including Sialkot, Lahore and Gujrat. The study concludes that the historical shift of mediaeval lohar (armourer) skills into current worldwide industrial exhibits, e.g. the surgical instrument sector in Sialkot, is an important segment of the industrial history of Pakistan. As the artefacts are placed in a transregional nexus of Persian, Ottoman, and local influences, the study has added a subtle regional discourse into the wider area of the study of Islamic material culture and heritage.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ayesha Latif, Nabeel Ahmed, Sami Yazdani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Literary Wealth of Sindhi Poetry & Literature in the Urdu Language
This article investigates the intellectual, literary, and historical contributions of Sindhi poets and writers to the development and enrichment of Urdu language and literature. It situates the emergence of Urdu in Sindh within a broader historical continuum, beginning with the Arab conquest of Sindh and extending through subsequent Iranian cultural influences. These encounters facilitated a dynamic linguistic and cultural exchange, laying the groundwork for the evolution of Urdu as a literary medium in the region. The study critically examines the role of early Sindhi Sufi poets, particularly Shah Karim, whose Persian poetry reflects a deep metaphysical tradition that later informed both Sindhi and Urdu literary expressions. It further explores the translational and interpretive endeavors of modern Sindhi intellectuals, such as Shaikh Ayaz, whose rendering of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s poetry into Urdu represents a significant act of cultural mediation, making Sindhi mystical thought accessible to a wider readership. A key focus of the paper is the impact of indigenous Sindhi poetic forms, especially the Waaee and Kaafi, on the thematic and stylistic dimensions of Urdu poetry. These forms, rooted in Sufi philosophy and oral traditions, have contributed to the evolution of Urdu poetic sensibilities, particularly in terms of simplicity, musicality, and spiritual symbolism. In this context, the Urdu poetry of Sachal Sarmast is analyzed as a vital bridge between Sindhi and Urdu literary traditions, exemplifying linguistic plurality and mystical universality. The research also engages with the scholarly contributions of Dr. Nabi Bux Baloch, whose seminal work on Urdu poetry in Sindh provides a foundational framework for understanding the historical trajectory of Urdu in the region. Additionally, the article highlights the translation of Sindhi short stories into Urdu, which has played a crucial role in cross-cultural literary exchange and the dissemination of Sindhi narratives within the broader Urdu literary canon. Finally, the study evaluates the contributions of contemporary Sindhi writers and poets who have actively participated in Urdu literature, thereby reinforcing the interconnectivity between the two languages. Through a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, this article underscores Sindh’s pivotal role as a cultural and linguistic bridge, demonstrating how Sindhi literary heritage has significantly enriched Urdu language and literature across historical and modern contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Ghulam Mustafa Solangi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Business Expansion Strategy Development for San Ruskindo’s in South Asian Tourism Markets
In this study, an international expansion strategy is developed surrounding San Ruskindo which is a business-to-business (B2B) travel agency established between Indonesia and Russia and the aim of diversifying the market base and solving the issue of underutilization of its capacity. The firm is also vulnerable to market concentration risks as it currently relies on the outbound tourism in Indonesia and therefore restricted growth opportunities. In its turn, the study explores the possibility and strategic appropriateness of entering the South Asian tourism markets. The study adopted a qualitative, project-based research design based on an Evidence-Based Management (EBM) approach and uses secondary data sources in the form of industry reports, tourism statistics, policy reports. Five target markets, namely India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Pakistan are analyzed with the help of a complex of strategic analytical tools: SWOT analysis, PESTEL analysis, and a comparative market ranking system. Results indicate that South Asia is an important market with a significant opportunity due to the growing income of the middle-class, the growing demand of outbound travel, and the digitalization of tourism services. Nonetheless, market heterogeneity requires discriminating and dynamic strategy of entry. The research provides the focus on India and Bangladesh as the countries of priority, which are backed with the potential of high demand and the prospects of partnering. It is suggested to implement a phased internationalization strategy, which would focus on B2B partnerships, culturally-specific travel packages, and digital marketing integration. The research contributes to the literature on international business and tourism by providing a context-specific strategic framework for B2B tourism expansion in emerging markets, while offering actionable insights for practitioners seeking market diversification.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shipon Nath, Sergei Shaposhnikov (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of Parenting Styles and Parent’s Mental Health on Child’s Behaviour
The current research question discussed the impact of parenting styles and mental health of parent on the behavioral consequences of children and it can be said that this is one of the critical gaps existing in the body of knowledge that can be applied to determine the synergistic impact of parenting and their mental health. The type of research design that was used was a quantitative cross-sectional research design. They used standardized tests such as Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire ( PSDQ), Parental Stress Scale (PSS) and the Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory (ECBI) to establish parenting style, parental mental and behavioral problems in children. The relationships proposed were tested using correlation and regression tests. It was found that authoritative parenting had the highest correlations between the parenting styles and the child behaviour outcomes, authoritarian parenting was the most closely correlated, whereas permissive parenting correlated with the behaviour problems more closely. There was a positive correlation between parental stress and disruptive child behaviour indicating that the greater the psychological stress of parents, the greater the behavioural problems of children. The regression analyses also found parenting styles and parental stress to have significant predictive value on child behaviour scores which indicated their complementary effect in explaining the adaptation of children to emotional and behavioural adjustment. All in all, this research paper has highlighted the significance of the healthy parenting behavior and mental health of the parent in ensuring good development outcomes. The implication of the findings to the psychologists, educators and family intervention programs are that parental well being could be optimized and balanced parenting styles facilitated to minimize the behavioral problems in children.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ilsa Batool, Saira Noreen, Moeeb Shajr, Maria Batool (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Concept to Success: Understanding the Role of Self-Concept and Communication Skills on Academic Achievement among University Students
This study examined the relationship between self-concept, communication skills, and academic achievement among university students in Pakistan. The research employed a quantitative approach using a correlational survey design to investigate the association among the study variables without establishing causal relationships. The population of the study consisted of male and female undergraduate students enrolled in public and private universities in Lahore. A sample of 500 BS-level students was selected through convenience sampling from four universities: University of the Punjab, Lahore College for Women University, University of Management and Technology, and Minhaj University. Data were collected using two standardized instruments: the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale (TCS) adapted from William H. Fitts and Warren (1996) to measure different dimensions of self-concept, and the Interpersonal Communication Skills Inventory (ICSI) developed by Millard J. Bienvenu Sr. (1971) to assess students’ communication skills. Both instruments used a five-point Likert scale. The reliability of the instruments was confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha, yielding coefficients of 0.752 for self-concept and 0.778 for communication skills. Data were collected through personal visits to the selected universities. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including mean, standard deviation, independent sample t-test, and Pearson product–moment correlation, were applied using SPSS version 15.0. The findings revealed a small but statistically significant positive relationship between self-concept, communication skills, and academic achievement among university students. The results emphasize the importance of fostering a positive self-concept and effective communication abilities to enhance students’ academic performance and personal development. The study recommends strengthening institutional support systems and developing educational programs that promote students’ psychological well-being and communication competencies in higher education.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Tariq Hussain, Hafiz Azhar Hussan, Dr. Shamim Ullah, Minahil Zaheer (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Beyond Passive Viewing: An Experimental Study into the Efficacy of Youtube Kids’ Science Programming in Pakistan using a CLT-SCT-CTML Integrated Framework
The learning environment of elementary education in the field of science education has changed due to the impacts of digital learning sources. The YouTube Kids application showed significant effects on science education regarding improved teaching methods, enhancing students’ motivation and engagement through visualization and inquiry. Limited research studies have been carried out focusing on the utilization of YouTube kids but specifically the domain of designing tri-theoretical framework Cognitive Load Theory (CLT), Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), and the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML) has been overlooked in Pakistan. The research aims to fulfil this gap how tri-theoretically optimized video content influences learning retention, mental effort, and science self-efficacy among elementary students. A quasi-experimental design was used with 60 elementary students (N=60) from Rawalpindi city. The convenient sampling technique was applied. The experimental group (n=30) engaged with science curated videos, while the control group (n=30) was taught using traditional methods. Quantitative analysis using t-tests showed that the experimental group achieved higher post-test scores. This research finds practical implications to the policy makers, curriculum developers and school administrators showing favour for the use of YouTube Kids in science education at the elementary level. The study made a valued contribution to the body of literature addressing the knowledge gaps on digital pedagogy and tri-theoretical framework that has a positive and significant effect in reducing cognitive load and enhancing the academic performance of elementary students in science.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Azeem Sarwar, Dr. Asma Shahzadi, Syeda Aziz-un-Nisa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of AI-Based Digital Tools on the Performance of Women Entrepreneurs in Developing Economies: The Mediating Role of Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy and Operational Efficiency and the Moderating Role of Digital Literacy
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has significantly transformed the entrepreneurial ecosystem, creating new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) worldwide. In developing economies, AI-based digital tools provide women entrepreneurs with innovative solutions to overcome traditional barriers such as limited market access, resource constraints, and operational inefficiencies. Despite the growing adoption of digital technologies, limited research has explored the mechanisms through which AI-based tools influence the performance of women entrepreneurs. This paper examines how AI-powered digital tools can enhance the performance of women entrepreneurs in developing economies and the role of entrepreneurial self-efficacy and operational efficiency that mediate the relationship between them and the moderator role of digital literacy. The survey was a quantitative research design that included the survey of women who run SMEs. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data. The results show that AI-based digital tools have a strong effect in improving the performance of women entrepreneurs because of their effects on decision making, productivity in operations and market reach. More so, the findings show that entrepreneurial self-efficacy and operational efficiency partly mediate the association between AI-based digital tools and entrepreneurial performance. It is also shown that the digital literacy influences this relationship significantly and enhances the positive effect of AI technologies on business performance. The results can be added to the existing literature on digital entrepreneurship and economic empowerment of women with a combination of technological, psychological, and operational approaches. The research also gives practical implications to policymakers, entrepreneurship support agencies, and technology providers who are interested in promoting the adoption of digital and enhancing the abilities of women entrepreneurs in third world economies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bushra Sadiq, Dr. Muhammad Ismail Ramay (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Role of AI in ELT Classrooms: Transforming Literary Learning and Pedagogical Practices
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in English Language Teaching (ELT) has introduced new opportunities for enhancing the teaching and learning of literature. This study investigates the role of AI tools in ELT literature classrooms and examines the perceptions of both teachers and students regarding the benefits and challenges of AI integration. Using a quantitative survey-based design, data were collected from 100 teachers and 100 students through structured Likert-scale questionnaires, addressing areas such as comprehension, engagement, writing support, and critical analysis. The study is organized into three phases: Phase 1 analyzes teachers’ perceptions, Phase 2 examines students’ experiences and reliance on AI, and Phase 3 provides a comparative analysis between the two groups. Percentage-based analysis reveals that teachers recognize the pedagogical advantages of AI while remaining cautious about overreliance and accuracy, whereas students report high engagement and dependence on AI tools for literary comprehension and analysis. The findings highlight the potential of AI to transform literary learning while emphasizing the need for careful integration, professional training, and balanced use alongside traditional teaching methods. This research contributes to the understanding of AI’s pedagogical impact in ELT and offers practical insights for educators aiming to enhance literature instruction through AI-supported learning technologies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Memoona Fida, Sadia Malik, Hina Gul (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sarwat Hussain emerged in the 1970s as a trend setting voice in Urdu poetry. His poetry reflects a strong sense of individuality, which is visible in his choice of themes as well as in the rhythm and cadence of his verse. The concept of time plays a significant role in his poetic expression and becomes a central element in shaping his ideas and imagery. His distinctive mode of perception, refined linguistic style and rich use of symbolism enhance the literary value of his work. This article also presents a comparative analysis of Sarwat Hussain’s poetry with that of renowned poets of world, highlighting the uniqueness of his poetic voice and the universal relevance of his themes
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhamad Hammad Niazi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Project Management Drivers of Failure in Mega Construction Projects in Pakistan: A Qualitative Synthesis for Governance Reform
The mega construction projects are supposed to increase energy supply, transport connectivity, water security, and urban productivity in Pakistan, but most of them have been provided late, at high cost, or lower than planned capacity. The paper is a synthesis as a publication would be because this result is repeated on a larger thesis. The study is based on ten large Pakistani infrastructure projects (hydropower, transport, water and energy schemes) analyzed within the framework of qualitative and case-based study relying on a thematic analysis of secondary evidence. The analysis finds five common and mutually supporting causes of failure, including weak front-end planning, reactive risk management, financial mismanagement, coordination breakdowns as well as political interference. These factors do not act alone but rather have an interaction as a failure system. Unrealistic schedules and budgets are the results of poor feasibility work; exposure to geological, climatic, regulatory and social shocks is where poor risk governance has been made; poor financial controls are used to disrupt cash flows and procurement, poor stakeholder coordination causes the projects to slow down decisions and increase disagreements; and political intervention creates instability in priorities, leadership and accountability. The article contends that in Pakistan, project failure can only be explained in an integrated governance perspective but not in the single-factor explanations. It draws on systems thinking, stakeholder theory, legitimacy theory, and technology adoption perspectives to demonstrate how a permanent change can be achieved based on institutional reforms to enhance front-end diligence, risk ownership, open financial controls, digital project controls, and safeguard against short-term political interference. The paper concludes by providing policy and managerial recommendations on how to enhance the reliability of delivery, regain public confidence, and enhance the value of the future mega projects in terms of development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Adnan, Tahira Noureen, Rashid Latif, Usama Javed, Zahra Syed, Muhamamd Asif Iqbal, Muhammad Irfan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mapping the Nexus between Food Wastage, Food Security, Environmental Sustainability and Economic Growth: A Bibliometric Analysis
Food wastage is a critical global challenge adversely impacting food security, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Despite growing academic interest, research integrating these interconnected dimensions remains fragmented. Therefore, this study systematically maps the intellectual structure and evolving trends of this multidimensional nexus. Adopting a systematic literature review approach guided by the PRISMA framework, 120 peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2024 were selected and analyzed using VOSviewer software. Bibliometric techniques were applied to evaluate keyword co-occurrence, citation patterns, journal sources, and geographical contributions. The analysis reveals three primary research streams: the interplay between food loss and food security, the environmental footprints of food wastage, and the implications for economic growth and resource efficiency. Findings underscore a distinct scholarly shift toward circular economy models and sustainable supply chain management. Furthermore, the results highlight the urgent need for integrated policy frameworks that simultaneously address consumer behavior, post-harvest losses, and resource utilization to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Ultimately, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the sustainable food systems landscape, bridging theory and practice while identifying interdisciplinary gaps to guide future research.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shazia Nawaz, Dr. Muhammad Ramzan Sheikh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Factors Influencing Libyan Foreign Policy and Pathways to Revamp the System
The historical experience of the struggle against the Italian colonialism influenced the development of the foreign policy of Libya in terms of the rise of the nationalistic feelings and the adherence to the principles of sovereignty and anti-colonialism. These influential personalities such as Omar Mokhtar contributed to the defining of the Libyan region identity. The non-alignment and pan-Arab unity of Libya affected alliances and relationships between the country and the key countries during the Cold War. Since 2011, the political unrest, such as the lack of authority, the presence of armed forces, and tribal conflicts, have complicated the consistent foreign policy and deteriorated the international position of Libya. Although oil reserves act as both the asset and vulnerability, fragmented military capacity has decreased the capacity of the country to act as a region player. Enhancing the governance, instability of institutions, and external relations are key to reforming the Libyan foreign policy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Syed Rizwan Haider Bukhari, Maaz Bin Waheed, Ehsanullah Khan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Colonial Governance in Gujrat: Revenue Administration and Judicial Transformation under British Rule (1849–1947)
This study focuses on the emergence and function of revenue and judicial systems during the British colonial period (1849–1947) in Gujrat. After the annexation of Punjab in 1849, the British colonial government established a centralized bureaucratic framework that aimed to consolidate political authority, regulate agrarian production, and secure a steady revenue stream. In Gujrat, these policies were carried out by implementing systematic land revenue settlements, extensive land surveys, and developing intricate systems of record-keeping, such as jamabandi and khasra records. These policies resulted in a change in land ownership and strengthened the hand of local landed classes, who worked closely with the colonial government. Simultaneously, the colonial government's introduction of codified legal systems replaced earlier systems of pluralistic legal practices, such as customary law and Islamic law, with a hierarchical judicial framework that operated under British legal codes. This study reveals how closely connected these systems were with each other during the colonial period in Gujrat. Land records, which emerged during revenue settlements, served as principal evidence in legal cases, and the judicial systems frequently upheld the agrarian order that emerged during colonial fiscal policies. While these systems ensured administrative and legal standardization, they also led to considerable socio-economic implications, including landlordism, the marginalization of small farmers, and an increasing reliance on market forces and credit systems. This study, by examining settlement reports and colonial gazetteers, attempts to place Gujrat's experience within a broader framework of colonial Punjab and suggests that these systems functioned not just as systems of governance but as tools by which colonial authority remade rural Punjab and its people. This study also reveals how these systems' legacies continue to impact contemporary administrative and legal systems in postcolonial Pakistan.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ayesha Iqbal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Legitimizing Informal Justice: Culture, Authority, and Alternative Dispute Resolution in Pashtun Society
The current research paper focuses on the cultural legitimacy of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) among Pashtun people. It dwells on continuity, social approval of ADR in the Pashtun society and ethics. Through the insight that has been gained after nine in depth interviews and one focus group discussion held at district Karak of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this research study focuses on the way that traditional systems like the Jirga are able to legitimize themselves by the way that they are able to command the trust of a community, religious authority and through culture embeddedness. Conversely, hybrid mechanisms, such as DRCs aim at institutionalizing ADR though they hardly achieve the same level of moral legitimacy. Considering the notion of social solidarity as put forward by Durkheim, the theory of traditional authority by Weber and the notion of governmentality as put forward by Foucault, the analysis reveals that the authority of ADR is more related to the collective morality concept than legal formality. Yet, contemporary trends such as modernization, gender exclusion and political interference to such legitimacy claim that this legitimacy needs reforms that would strike a balance between culture continuity and procedural fairness.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fayaz Aslam, Dr. Shahzad Khaver Mushtaq, Muhammad Atif Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of 12-Week Active and Passive Stretching Programs on Lower-Extremity Range of Motion and Pain in Adults Aged 45 - 60 : A Systematic Literature Review
The signs of musculoskeletal disorders include lower-extremity range of motion (ROM) and related pain that are prevalent in middle-aged adults and may severely affect functional capacity and quality of life. Stretching exercises, such as active and passive ones, are commonly prescribed to mitigate these constraints but it is not clear how long, how frequently, and what type of stretching exercise should be used by people of 45 to 60 years. It was a systematic literature review that tested the impact of 12-week or longer stretching programs on lower-extremity ROM and pain in adults age 4560 years. The search of structured electronic collections of peer-reviewed academic articles, books, and reports using PRISMA 2020 principles was carried out. Keywords such as stretching interventions, lower-extremity joints, range of motion, pain outcomes, and target age group were used as search strategies. The inclusion criteria were eligible studies that were randomized controlled trials or quasi-experiments that enrolled adults aged 4560 years and applied stretching interventions of at least 12 weeks and reported lower-extremity ROM and/or pain. The study screening and data extraction were done by two independent reviewers, with the methodological quality evaluated with Cochran Risk of Bias tool. Out of 230 original records, 87 unique studies were left after the removal of duplicates. After the screening of abstracts (n = 24) and the evaluation of the full-text, seven studies were selected as meeting all the inclusion criteria indicating an inclusion rate of 8.0%. The studies included reviewed various modalities of stretching such as contraceptive intramuscular facilitation (PNF), dynamic stretching, static passive stretching, and static active stretching, as well as muscle-directed stretching and nerve directed stretching with sample sizes of 10 to 76 individuals. Five studies found a significant enhancement of ROM with a range of 7.3 to 9.9 degrees increase of ankle reflexion, and three studies that assessed pain outcome results showed significant decrease of pain levels after the interventions of stretching. The assessment of risk-of-bias revealed that there were a number of methodological limitations, most notably concerning the procedure of blinding and allocation concealment. In general, the results indicate that stretching programs of 12 weeks or more can be actively used to increase lower-extremity ROM and decrease pain in middle-aged adults. Passive stretching and PNF methods seem especially useful in the reduction of pain, though, both muscle-specific and nerve-specific stretching methods also lead to the increase of ROM. However, the paucity of the eligible studies, the differences in the intervention regimes and the methodological shortcomings necessitate a careful interpretation of the findings. Randomized controlled trials with rigorously designed and standardized stretching protocols, sufficient blinding and detailed reporting should be used in future research to enhance the body of evidence and guide clinical practice recommendations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Najeeb Ullah , Dr. Waseem khan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Understanding Learners Autonomy through Students’ Voices: Insights from ESL Undergraduate learners at University of Sindh
The aim of this paper is to investigate learner autonomy among undergraduate ESL learners, with a exacting focal point on BS English students at the Institute of English language and literature, University of Sindh, Jamshoro. The paper aims to investigate learners’ beliefs and experiences concerning learner autonomy and to recognize the responsibilities, capability and confronts related with autonomous language learning in a higher education context. Considering learner autonomy is measured a necessary academic goal, as it plays an important part in sustaining efficient language learning. To attain the aims of the study, a qualitative research design was employed, and semi structured interviews were conducted with 30 purposively selected undergraduate students representing diverse levels of academic performance. The interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework. The results reveal that learners first and foremost conceptualize autonomy in terms of psychological skills, technical skills and institutional and curriculum related constrains. Learners related learner autonomy with inner characteristic such as motivation, confidence, self-regulation, and emotional control as well as autonomous resource use self monitoring and proactive learning practices. The study emphasizes the requirement for helpful institutional exercises and learner centered approaches to successfully promote learner autonomy in Pakistani higher education contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nazish Memon, Prof. Dr Sanaullah Ansari (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Roles of Information Technology in the Healthcare Management System: An Empirical Analysis of the Saudi Aramco Medical Services Organization (Samso)
This research paper explored the contribution of the information technology in the healthcare management system in the Saudi Aramco Medical Services Organization (SAMSO). The researchers conducted research to determine the correlation between the adoption of information technology and healthcare management system performance; the impact of electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, and health information exchange (HIE) systems on healthcare quality, patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, patient access, communication, and continuity of care. The quantitative research design was used and 100 respondents were sampled. The study data were collected using structured questionnaire which contained closed ended and five point likert scale items. The analysis of the data was performed in terms of descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. The results revealed that information technology adoption affected the performance of the healthcare management system in a significant positive way. EHR efficacy transformed the quality of healthcare to a great extent, whereas the use of EHR had a positive impact on patient outcomes. The effect of telemedicine on patient and provider satisfaction as well as on healthcare accessibility was very positive. The communication effectiveness and continuity of care were also dramatically increased using HIE systems. Comprehensively, all the hypotheses were proved, which means that information technology was instrumental in enhancing healthcare management and service delivery in SAMSO.
Saudi Aramco Medical Services Organization (SAMSO)
Copyright (c) 2026 Azzah Abdulaziz Al-Johani, Asim Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Suffering in the Love Poetry of Faiz and Neruda
The political aspects of the work by Pablo Neruda and Faiz Ahmed Faiz have long dominated the love poetry of the two writers. The paper has tried to shift the critical focus back to the issue of suffering as it is evidenced in their chosen love poems. By means of close reading and comparative analysis, the paper analyzes the way in which both poets express personal anguish, loss, and longing as the general poetic issues as opposed to being the byproducts of their revolutionary identities. In this respect the following poems by Neruda are considered: Tonight I Can Write the Saddest Lines, A Song of Despair, and Don't Go Far Off, and poems by Faiz, in this case: If My Suffering Found a Voice, The Death of the Fires of Love, and Don't Ask Me Now, Beloved. The results indicate that the two poets are connected with one another through the common subject of suffering, but they are radically different in their reaction to suffering - Neruda becomes desperate and existential and Faiz uses suffering as an identity source and survival. The paper concludes that the love poetry of both Neruda and Faiz should be read in its own right without concern to the political paradigms in which they have been traditionally read.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Maham Michelle Gill, Shaheena Ayub Bhatti (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Silent War in the Indian Ocean: Who Controls Asia’s Sea Lanes?
The Indian Ocean is expected to become a key strategic platform in determining trading patterns in the world, energy security, and the current state of power balance in Asia. This paper will discuss the novice Silent war in the area where the key players, especially India, China, and the United States of America, are struggling to gain dominance over the key sea routes and nautical bottlenecks connecting Asia to the world markets. The discussion examines, the three aspects of the geopolitical, the economic and the military aspects of maritime competition by examining issues of navalization, the development of port infrastructure and new strategic alliances. Based on qualitative research and use of case studies of major chokepoints such as Strait of Hormuz and Strait of Malacca, the study evaluates the impact of who has control in strategic autonomy and regional stability through control of maritime routes. Based on the findings, modern leadership in the Indian Ocean is getting more technologically integrated, networked, and infrastructure-linked than the traditional fleet-based form of warfare and it has critical ramifications on the future strategy of Asia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Syed Rizwan Haider Bukhari, Haider Ali Khan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Perception of Reading Strategies among Pakistani University Students: Bottom-Up VS Top-down Model
Reading strategies play a vital role in improving reading comprehension among students whose first language is not English. In Pakistan, English is widely used as a second language in higher education, making effective reading strategies essential for students’ academic success. The use of reading strategies helps learners understand texts more deeply and complete their academic tasks effectively. The present study investigates the use of reading strategies by focusing on the bottom-up and top-down models in both academic and business texts among Pakistani university students. A total of 150 undergraduate students from different universities in Pakistan participated in this study. A 45 item questionnaire was distributed to the participants to collect data. The findings revealed that top-down reading strategies were used more frequently by students when reading both academic and business texts, while bottom-up reading strategies were used less frequently. The results suggest that future studies should include a larger number of participants, examine the relationship between language proficiency and strategy use, conduct in-depth interviews, and compare the strategies used by low- and high-proficiency readers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mumtaz Ali, Abdul Basit, Saqib Abbas, Muhammad Zaman (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Succession of Digital Assets Under Islamic Inheritance Law: A Fiqh-Grounded Framework for Crypto, Cloud Accounts, and NFTs
Over the past decade, the explosion of digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and cloud-based accounts, has introduced complex legal questions that conventional inheritance regimes struggle to address. In Muslim‐majority jurisdictions and among Muslim communities worldwide, these questions intersect with the requirements of Islamic personal law, particularly the farā’iḍ (obligatory heirs’ shares) and waṣiyya (testamentary bequests). This study undertakes original empirical and doctrinal research to chart a path toward a unified fiqh‑grounded framework for digital asset succession. By combining doctrinal analysis of classical juristic sources, contemporary fatwas, and statutory developments with semi‑structured interviews among scholars, estate planners, and digital asset owners across Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom, the research shows that digital assets are increasingly recognized as mal mutaqawwim (valuable property) but lack standardized protocols for identification, valuation, and transfer. The study reveals that differences in platform terms of service and cross‑border jurisdiction complicate heirs’ access to private keys and cloud accounts, exacerbating existing gender and socio‑economic disparities. It proposes a model of “custodial key trusts” and e‑wills that integrate digital asset inventories with farā’iḍ distributions, allowing compliance with both shariah and civil laws. The paper argues that without coordinated legal reforms and educational initiatives, vast wealth stored in digital forms risks being lost or misappropriated, undermining the objectives of ḥifẓ al‑māl (preservation of wealth) and social justice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rehana Anjum, Arun Barkat, Asif Ali Jatoi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Book Review “AL Jihad Fil Islam BY Syed Abu AL Ala Mododi”
Al-Jihad fi al-Islam by Abul A'la Maududi presents a comprehensive study of the concept, principles, and practical application of Jihad in Islam. The author emphasizes that Jihad is not limited to armed struggle but includes all efforts against oppression, injustice, and moral corruption, in accordance with Islamic teachings. The book explores historical examples from the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the Rashidun Caliphate, including the Conquest of Makkah, the Battle of Badr, and campaigns against apostate tribes, illustrating the ethical and societal dimensions of Jihad. Maududi also critically addresses the misconceptions propagated by Orientalist scholars such as D. S. Margoliouth, William Muir, T. W. Arnold, and Reinhart Dozy, clarifying that Islam’s concept of Jihad is primarily reformative and moral, not aggressive or imperialistic. Finally, the book emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct, social reform, and the establishment of justice as core objectives of Jihad, highlighting Islam’s vision for a just and peaceful society.
Jihad, Islam, Social Reform, Justice, Orientalist Critiques, Ethical Warfare
Copyright (c) 2025 Waqar Ahmed, Bushra Subhan, Muhammad Kafeel (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Combatting Fake News on Social Media Using AI: A Study Among Public Sector University Students of Sindh Province
In an era dominated by digital communication, the widespread circulation of fake news on social media poses a serious threat to informed decision-making and public trust. This study aims to investigate the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in identifying and combating fake news among public sector university students in Sindh Province, Pakistan. quantitative research design using a descriptive cross-sectional survey method to collect data from public sector university students in Sindh’ exposure to misinformation, their awareness and use of AI-based fact-checking tools, and the perceived effectiveness of such technologies. A structured survey had been used to conduct the quantitative insights. The findings are expected to highlight key gaps in digital literacy and propose actionable recommendations for integrating AI tools into academic settings to foster critical thinking and responsible media consumption. This study contributes to ongoing efforts to create a digitally literate youth population capable of navigating social media with discernment and responsibility.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fozia Soomro, Mah Saba Maheen, Waseema Batool, Rehana Jalbani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Student's Training and English Fluency: The Exploration of AI-Assisted Fluency Training to Promote English Fluency in Students of AJK
This paper reviewed the efficiency of AI-based fluency training in enhancing fluency in speaking English among undergraduate learners at the Women University of Azar Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Bagh. The quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design was applied where 60 students were put in experimental (AI-supported) and control (traditional instruction) group. The evaluation of fluency was based on structured speaking tasks which measured the speech rate, frequency of pauses, frequency of repair, analytic rating and willingness to communicate. Findings indicated that extensive gains on fluency performance and communicative confidence in the experimental arm were significantly high. The results show that planned AI-mediated orally speaking practice can improve oral fluency in EFL higher education settings.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rukhsana Ameer, Sania Ghaffar, Kausar Riaz (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Economic Pressures and Welfare Deficits in Faisalabad’s Labour Colonies: The Role of Unions and Social Protections
Faisalabad, Pakistan’s leading textile and industrial centre, accommodates thousands of low-wage workers in eight government-established labour colonies created in 1976 under the Workers Welfare Ordinance, 1971. These colonies five in East Faisalabad and three in West Faisalabad provide rent-free housing allocated through lottery to registered employees, with no fixed occupancy duration during employment (though families must vacate six months after a worker’s death). Despite this provision, residents face severe welfare deficits and economic pressures. Housing units are dilapidated with leaking roofs, cracked walls, poor ventilation and overcrowding; basic utilities are unreliable intermittent clean water, frequent electricity load-shedding, nighttime gas cut-offs, inadequate sanitation leading to sewage overflow and flooding, broken roads, unmanaged garbage and poor drainage. On-site healthcare and quality schools are virtually absent, commutes to workplaces are long and costly and proximity to industrial zones exposes residents to pollution-related health risks. Economic insecurity is acute: low and irregular wages, job instability, high living costs and minimal access to social protections (health insurance, pensions, EOBI benefits, provident funds) particularly affect informal and contract workers. No government grants support colony maintenance and bureaucratic delays hinder repairs. No registered unions exist within the colonies themselves; governance is centralized under the Director Labour Welfare (East) and (West). However, Faisalabad’s broader trade unions consistently advocate for residents’ rights, better wages, improved living conditions and enforcement of labour laws. This study examines how these intersecting economic pressures and welfare deficits perpetuate vulnerability and inequality among industrial workers, highlighting the constrained yet important role of trade unions and the urgent need for strengthened social protection mechanisms and policy reforms.
Faisalabad labour colonies, textile workers, economic pressures, welfare deficits, trade unions Pakistan
Copyright (c) 2025 Usman Asghar, Dr. Iffat Tahira (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing the Efficacy of Early Palliative Care Interventions on Psychological Resilience, Functional Capacity, and Health-Related Quality of Life within Patient-Caregiver Dyads in Oncology Settings
Cancer affects both patients and caregivers, yet the dyadic impact of early palliative care (EPC) remains underexplored. To evaluate EPC efficacy on psychological resilience, functional capacity, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patient-caregiver dyads. A PRISMA-guided systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs (PubMed, Scopus, EBSCOhost, Cochrane; to January 2024) assessing psychological, functional, and quality-of-life outcomes. Subgroup analyses compared short-term (<24 weeks) versus long-term (≥24 weeks) effects using fixed- and random-effects models. EPC significantly reduced anxiety and depression in patients and caregivers, with larger effects at ≥24 weeks. Patient HRQoL improved on symptom-focused measures (EORTC QLQ-C30), but functional status showed no significant change. Caregiver benefits emerged more strongly in long-term follow-up, while care satisfaction improved robustly for both dyad members across all timepoints. EPC enhances psychological well-being and satisfaction within oncology dyads, supporting early, sustained, and dyad-focused palliative integration despite limited impact on functional capacity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aneela Bibi, Ayesha Abbas, Omaima Shahid, Uyaina Maheen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Geopolitics of Great Power Competition in South Asia: Evaluating Pakistan’s Strategic Position between the United States and China
This Research explores the geostrategic rivalry between the United States of America and China in South Asia and its impacts on Pakistan. It begins by tracing the origin and historical evolution of US-China relations in the south Asian region, with a focus on their shift from cooperation to rivalry due to ideological differences and the influence of the proxy War. This research paper delves into the realm of economic power politics, military technology, exploratory the digital technological advancements in China and the United States and their role in shaping the strategic landscape of South Asia. A particular emphasis is placed on Pakistan's role in this context and the security challenges it faces vis-a-vis the US-China rivalry. This paper evaluates the repercussions of this rivalry on Pakistan’s geopolitical and economic positioning. It analyzes Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to balance its relations with the two global powers, highlighting the complexities involved. The economic opportunities and challenges for Pakistan, including the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the nation's financial resources and international borrowing are also considered. The study addresses Pakistan's security and strategic considerations, particularly its involvement in the Afghan peace process and the implications for its defense posture and military engagements. It further explores Pakistan’s relations with key regional actors, particularly India, in the context of the U.S.-China rivalry. This research is qualitative in nature as various online resources, books, articles and reports published in international relations are studied. This research paper provides an inclusive analysis of the US-China geostrategic rivalry in South Asia and its multifaceted implications for Pakistan within the context of the historical evolution of this rivalry, the role of military technology, and the intricate dynamics of Pakistan's geopolitical, economic, and security challenges within the context of great power’s competition. The findings inform policy recommendations for Pakistan and shed light on the future prospects and challenges in the US-China rivalry in South Asia.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Ather Ali, Aqsa Rubab, Abdul Basit Khan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0