On Campus Violence and Youth: Exploring Students Perspective and Their Political Participation

Abstract

This study aims to find the sociological realities of on campus violence in the public sector universities of Islamabad. The study tends to understand the reasons behind violent behavior among students. Universities are expected to provide exposure and political education to their graduates with peaceful means. However, the Pakistani universities are experiencing violent behavior among students. Student unions were functioning illegally in universities, and they are prone to violent activities while they were banned by Supreme Court of Pakistan in 1993. Qualitative research approach was used in this study through purposive sampling and Interview guide. 16 students were interviewed from two public universities of Islamabad for in-depth analysis of on-campus violence. The on-campus violence is due to ethnic nationalism, biased and hated literature against opponents, and political hegemony. Political parties should arrange training for students interested in politics. Political and religious radicalization should be discouraged.