English in a Global Context and its Importance in University Programmes in Pakistan

Abstract

The research is based on the premise that the global movement has affected almost every aspect of human life stretching from the social to the economic. Greater interconnectivity between nations has highlighted the need for a language in which people can communicate. It is in this context that the role of English (a) as a global language and (b) its inclusion in Pakistani university programmes has been studied. The study looks at past education policies and the present situation in regard to the status and position of English in Pakistan. It also makes a case for its inclusion in the curriculum across the board. The data has been analyzed using a multi-method approach to ensure greater reliability and validity. It is hoped that education planners and policy makers will dovetail the learning of English with present day needs. In order to establish a framework for her study, the researcher looked at number of official publications regarding policy and implementation. Aware that official policy is not always in step with contemporary requirements, she broadened her range to include higher students in science and humanities. She also consulted important stakeholders such as departmental heads, decision – makers in agencies such as the Higher Education Commission, and senior educationists. In brief, her findings indicate a process of re-evaluation of English in higher education in Pakistan, both directly as a result of growing awareness in educational circles, and indirectly as a result of the effects of globalization on our society