The Aga Khan University Institute for Educational Development (AKU-IED) hosted its monthly Kazim Bacchus Research Seminar, delving into the intricate dynamics of Pakistan's education system. This session, titled "Colonial Legacy and Politicization in Pakistan," served as a platform for critical discourse on the enduring impact of historical legacies and the politicization of education. Dr Asghar Ali Dashti, a distinguished academic and seasoned researcher, led the discussion both in-person and online.
Dr Dashti, renowned for his contributions to the Department of International Relations at the Federal Urdu University, Karachi, brought to light the entrenched colonial influences that continue to permeate Pakistan's educational landscape. Drawing upon his extensive research, including his notable work on 'Pakistan-America Military Relations,' Dr Dashti scrutinized the dogmatic approaches ingrained in pedagogy and curriculum, echoing concerns over the distortion of Indo-Pak history.
Throughout the seminar, he advocated for a paradigm shift in educational frameworks, challenging the prevalent "banking model" of education. He championed alternative approaches, such as "metaphysical education," which prioritize holistic development and critical thinking over rote memorization.
Moreover, Dr Dashti underscored the imperative of reclaiming indigenous narratives and epistemologies, emphasizing the rich academic traditions of the global South. He spotlighted ancient institutions like Nalanda University and Taxila University as bastions of knowledge and wisdom, advocating for a more transparent and inclusive portrayal of history in curricula.
The seminar culminated in a lively Q&A session, where attendees, including faculty, students, alumni, and researchers, engaged in thoughtful exchanges, further enriching the discourse.
The Aga Khan University Institute for Educational Development (AKU-IED) hosted its monthly Kazim Bacchus Research Seminar, delving into the intricate dynamics of Pakistan's education system. This session, titled "Colonial Legacy and Politicization in Pakistan," served as a platform for critical discourse on the enduring impact of historical legacies and the politicization of education. Dr Asghar Ali Dashti, a distinguished academic and seasoned researcher, led the discussion both in-person and online.
Dr Dashti, renowned for his contributions to the Department of International Relations at the Federal Urdu University, Karachi, brought to light the entrenched colonial influences that continue to permeate Pakistan's educational landscape. Drawing upon his extensive research, including his notable work on 'Pakistan-America Military Relations,' Dr Dashti scrutinized the dogmatic approaches ingrained in pedagogy and curriculum, echoing concerns over the distortion of Indo-Pak history.
Throughout the seminar, he advocated for a paradigm shift in educational frameworks, challenging the prevalent "banking model" of education. He championed alternative approaches, such as "metaphysical education," which prioritize holistic development and critical thinking over rote memorization.
Moreover, Dr Dashti underscored the imperative of reclaiming indigenous narratives and epistemologies, emphasizing the rich academic traditions of the global South. He spotlighted ancient institutions like Nalanda University and Taxila University as bastions of knowledge and wisdom, advocating for a more transparent and inclusive portrayal of history in curricula.
The seminar culminated in a lively Q&A session, where attendees, including faculty, students, alumni, and researchers, engaged in thoughtful exchanges, further enriching the discourse.
