Why Student Unions are the Need of Hour?
By Taimoor Shehzad (Mphil QAU Islamabad)
Students have historically played a crucial role in shaping the political landscapes of their countries. Their energy, passion, and idealism can challenge the status quo and push for reforms that resonate across society. Notable examples include the student movements in the United States during the Civil Rights Movement, which helped dismantle segregation laws, and the role of students in Pakistan’s as well as Bangladesh's struggle for independence. Similarly, within our country, students have played a pivotal role during the dictatorships by confronting it and struggling for mass mobilization as well as democracy restoration.
In Pakistan, student unions have been at the forefront of political activism, advocating for rights, democracy, and social justice. Their contributions have often reflected broader societal struggles, making them essential stakeholders in the country's political development. Student unions' vibrancy and dynamism can rejuvenate political discourse, driving meaningful change and holding power accountable. For example, IJT was a first-line warrior against the dictatorships of Ayub Khan and Zia ul Haq regimes. Consequently, it faced the music of ban and punishment of jail and lashes respectively.
The history of student unions in Pakistan is tumultuous, particularly following the imposition of a ban by General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq in the late 1970s. Zia's regime sought to consolidate power, viewing student organizations as potential threats to his authoritarian rule. By banning student unions, Zia aimed to dismantle a critical platform for political engagement and activism, curtailing the voice of a generation eager for change.
This ban was not merely a political maneuver; it was a strategic move to suppress opposition. In a country where young people constitute a significant portion of the population, sidelining their voices meant suppressing a vital source of innovation and reform.
The impacts of this ban have been profound and far-reaching. Firstly, the absence of student unions has led to a disconnect between the youth and political processes, resulting in a politically apathetic generation. When students are disengaged, it creates a society that lacks the vibrancy needed for democracy to flourish. This apolitical environment can stifle critical thinking and limit the emergence of new leaders who could potentially steer the nation toward progress.
Moreover, the ban has contributed to a brain drain, as many educated and politically aware youth seek opportunities abroad, where they can engage in societies that value their contributions. This loss of potential leaders and thinkers represents a significant setback for national development.
The ban on student unions has also given rise to a wave of nationalistic politics among students and in the broader national political landscape. Without organized platforms to channel their energies into constructive dialogue, students have increasingly gravitated toward extremist ideologies and divisive nationalism. This shift has resulted in violent confrontations on campuses, disrupting the educational environment and creating an atmosphere of fear and hostility.
These violent clashes among students, often fueled by nationalistic and political affiliations, have not only affected their education but also fostered an environment of intellectual superficiality and chaos. In national politics, this trend has mirrored a growing tendency toward anarchy and separatism, exemplified by movements such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). The lack of student representation in political discourse has created a vacuum that extremist groups have exploited, leading to fragmentation within the society and threatening the very fabric of the nation.
Lifting the ban on student unions in Pakistan is not merely beneficial; it is essential. Here are several compelling reasons:
1. It is the fundamental right protected in article 17 of the constitution of Pakistan, which ensures the right of association. It is somehow paradoxical that laborers have unions but the architects of the future are compelled to sign affidavits during admission taking an oath of being apolitical on campus.
2. Student unions can provide a platform for emerging leaders who can bring innovative ideas and perspectives into national politics. Engaging youth in political processes ensures that diverse voices are represented.
3. When students are organized, they become more aware of their rights and responsibilities. This engagement cultivates a generation that understands the importance of civic duty, encouraging active participation in the democratic process. It becomes more vital when voting age is 18 years and students have to make a choice for their own future.
4. As Pakistan grapples with various socio-political challenges, the need for educated and informed politicians is more critical than ever. Student unions can nurture the next generation of leaders who are well-versed in governance, policy-making, and societal issues.
5. A politically engaged student body can combat the culture of apolitical fashionism that threatens democratic norms. In a society where students are involved, there is a greater chance of fostering a politically aware and active citizenry.
6. By providing a space for political engagement, students are less likely to feel the need to seek opportunities abroad. Creating a purpose for their activism can help retain talent within the country and avoid brain drain, contributing to national growth.
7. Allowing student unions to operate can help redirect the energies of students toward constructive political engagement, reducing the appeal of extremist separatist ideologies of nationalism or sectarianism. By providing a platform for dialogue and debate, student unions can counter the divisive narratives that have emerged in their absence, promoting unity and cooperation among diverse student bodies.
In summary, the engagement of students in political processes is crucial for the health of democracy, especially in a developing country like Pakistan. It is time to recognize that student unions can serve as incubators for future leaders who can guide the nation toward a more prosperous and equitable future.
To facilitate the lifting of the ban on student unions, several steps can be taken:
1. The government should take legislative actions by initiating discussions in the parliament to formally lift the ban, ensuring that student unions are recognized as legitimate entities.
2. A framework should be established that outlines the functioning of student unions, emphasizing democratic practices and respect for diverse opinions.
3. Universities and colleges should be encouraged to foster a culture of political engagement, providing resources and support for student-led initiatives.
4. A clear code of conduct for student unions should be developed to prevent misuse and ensure that these organizations focus on constructive dialogue and democratic engagement rather than violence or extremism.
5. A government or independent body could be established to monitor student union activities, ensuring compliance with the code of conduct while providing support and guidance.
6. Institutions should develop training programs focused on leadership, negotiation, and civic responsibility. This would prepare students to engage in political processes constructively, fostering a culture of respect and collaboration.
The revival of student unions in Pakistan is not just a matter of restoring rights; it is a critical step toward invigorating the nation’s political landscape. Engaging students in politics can lead to a more informed and active citizenry, which is vital for the health of democracy. As Pakistan navigates complex challenges, fostering a politically engaged youth can provide the necessary leadership and vision for a better future. The time to act is now—lifting the ban on student unions is a necessary step toward a more democratic and vibrant society. By embracing the potential of student unions, Pakistan can harness the energy and ideas of its youth, steering the nation away from fragmentation and toward a future characterized by unity, progress, and democratic values.