Institutional Integration Strategies: Promoting Civic Engagement through Skilled Civic Education in Educational Institutions of Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

The integration of civic engagement into educational institutions is a complex pedagogical process that requires a transformative strategy, confirming that individuals acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for active participation in civic life. This study explores how civic engagement through skilled civic education can be institutionalized in the educational institutions for community development in Pakistan, focusing on the Bahawalpur Division, which includes the three districts of Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Rahimyar Khan, Punjab.

A qualitative approach is carefully employed to address the research objective and achieve the study’s ultimate goals. Qualitative data is collected through semi-structured interviews with sixteen different personalities and analysed through thematic analysis. More accurate findings are obtained through cross-referencing triangulation. This method ensures deeper insights, with key respondents providing valuable opinions on strategies to promote civic engagement through skilled civic education. The findings highlight several critical strategies, including institutionalizing community service learning, integrating skilled civic education into the curriculum, and employing effective pedagogical strategies such as learner-centred methods. Additional strategies include awarding academic credit for learning, implementing teacher pre-service training, providing incentives and accountability measures, and establishing collaborations with key stakeholders.

By implementing these strategies, public college educational institutions play a transformative role in nurturing socially responsible and engaged citizens, contributing to the development of individuals and communities.

Key Words: Institutionalization of Civic Engagement, Skilled Civic Education and Community Development, Bahawalpur Division, Pakistan.