- By: Muhammad Faisal
A crucial aspect in Pakistan’s educational system remained overshadowed – a lack of comprehensive understanding of constitution and the basic right of a citizen is visible not even in the un-educated but also in the educated pairs of young Pakistani.
The absence of a robust emphasis on constitutional education in the country’s schooling system has
inadvertently led to a generation largely unaware of their rights, responsibilities, and the framework that shapes the democratic foundation of Pakistan. Furthermore, this void in knowledge limits the potential of the young populace and also impedes the nation’s progress towards informed and engaged citizenry.
In recognition of this very critical need to integrate Pakistan’s constitution and constitutional rights of the citizens in the very fabric of this educational system. By giving such space to the constitution in the educational system, such a move can empower youth with a deeper critical understanding of their rights, thereby nurturing a generation of active and conscientious people, poised to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.
We have seen similar traits in our neighbor countries like India that many states decided to make the constitution of India as part of their curriculum. In a pioneering move, Chhattisgarh sets a precedent for the nation by integrating the Indian Constitution into its school curriculum.The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has taken a significant stride in empowering its youth with a profound understanding of constitutional principles, ensuring that students across primary, middle, and high school levels will now receive structured education about the fundamental values enshrined in the Indian Constitution.With this bold and forward-thinking move, Chhattisgarh serves as a guiding beacon, showcasing the transformative potential of integrating constitutional education into the school curriculum—a template that could inspire other states and contribute to fostering a more cognizant and empowered youth across the nation.
Now the question arises that why should Pakistan imbed it’s constitution in the school curriculum?
Well the answer here is promising. The incorporation of Pakistan’s constitution into the educational framework can significantly increase the growth of the country and the aware youth of today can be the empowered leaders of tomorrow. Moreover, educating the youth about Pakistan’s constitution will foster a deep understanding of the country’s democratic principles, foundational values, and citizens’ rights. This knowledge will not only empower the younger generation but will also instil a sense of responsibility, enabling them to actively participate in shaping the nation’s future. Furthermore, an informed citizenry is
essential for the effective functioning of a democratic society, and by familiarising students with the constitution of Pakistan, Pakistan can cultivate a culture of respect for the rule of law, civic engagement, and ethical governance from an early age, and leading to more participatory, transparent and accountable society.
Additionally, as we can mentioned the transparent and accountable society, a well-informed citizenry of a society equipped with constitutional knowledge can serve as a bulwark against misinformation and manipulation. It can enable individuals to critically analyse political decisions, safeguarding against authoritarian tendencies and ensuring the preservation of democratic ideals.
Ultimately, by instilling a deep appreciation for the constitution within the educational fabric, Pakistan can nurture a generation of informed, engaged, and responsible citizens. This, in turn, will lay the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous, and progressive Pakistan—a nation where its citizens are not only aware of their rights but actively contribute to the collective growth and well-being of the society. Therefore, integrating Pakistan’s constitution into the education system emerges as an imperative step towards securing a brighter future for the nation.